Woods County Plane Crash Kills One

A fatal aircraft crash occurred at 5:31 p.m. Saturday on the 800 block fo Share Drive in Alva, OK in Woods County.

A Beachcraft Bonanza aircraft was flown by David Thoms Chael (SIC), 61, of Enid, OK. He was pronounced dead at the scene, from massive injuries, by Medical Examiner Rory Garien.

A passenger, Courtney Washburn, 39, of Alva, OK was flown by AirEvac to Baptist Burn Center in Oklahoma City, OK. Washburn is listed in critical condition.

Investigators said the aircraft was flying southbound approaching the north side of the airport when a cowl hatch opened. Washburn was piloting at that time and David Chael took over when the cowl hatch opened. The landing gear deployed and a front wheel struck a power line. The aircraft came to rest on its top. Both occupants were exiting the plane when it exploded.

The investigation into the crash continues.

Investigated by Trooper Justin Barney J332 of the Alfalfa County Detachment of Troop J.
Assisted by Trooper Brock Morgan J459 of the Woods County Detachment, Woods County Sheriff’s Office, Alva Police Department, Alva Fire Department, NTSB, FAA, M.E. Rory Garren, and Air Evac.

This report is based upon the troopers investigation of this collision. It may contain the opinion of the trooper.