1 dead after two jets collide at Arizona airport, officials say
SCOTTSDALE, AZ (KPHO/Gray News) —One person is dead after two jets, including one owned by rock star Vince Neil, collided on the runway at Scottsdale Municipal Airport in Arizona on Monday afternoon.
Around 2:45 p.m., multiple emergency crews responded to reports of an emergency at the airport, near Scottsdale and Thunderbird roads.
According to the FAA, Neil’s Learjet 35A veered off the runway after landing and “crashed into a Gulfstream 200 business jet” that was parked on the ramp. Airport officials say it appears the left main landing gear failed as it was landing, causing the collision.
Video obtained by Arizona’s Family shows the moment of impact as it skirts through the runway.
Scottsdale fire officials say one person was found dead upon arrival, and three others were treated for various injuries at a nearby hospital. A fifth person refused treatment.
Federal investigators said four people were onboard the Learjet and one person was in the Gulfstream.
Neil is the vocalist for the heavy metal band Mötley Crüe. A statement from Neil’s attorney stated that Neil was not on the plane at the time of the crash.
“Mr. Neil’s thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved, and he is grateful for the critical aid of all first responders assisting today,” Neil’s attorney said.
Flight tracking site ADS-B Exchange showed the flight was arriving from Austin.
“The FAA is temporarily pausing flights into the airport,” the agency said in a statement. It’s unclear when airport operations will resume.
Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky and the city of Scottsdale release a statement following the crash.
Today, Scottsdale sadly experienced an aircraft accident at our airport. Based on the information provided thus far, it appears at least one person is dead after two jets collided on the runway at Scottsdale Airport.
The accident happened just before 3 p.m. when a Learjet 35A veered off the runway after landing, according to information provided by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Currently the airport is closed. We are closely monitoring the situation, and we are in touch with airport, police and federal agencies and will update the community as we have further information.
On behalf of the city of Scottsdale, we offer our deepest condolences to those involved in the accident and for those who have been taken to our trauma center for treatment. We will keep all affected by this tragedy in our prayers.
I would also like to thank our first responder community for their quick action and service in this situation.”
The National Transportation Safety Board is now investigating the wreck.
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