Chicago, IL (December 18, 2025) – A deadly plane crash occurred Wednesday, December 17, at DuPage Airport in West Chicago. The incident happened shortly before 1:50 p.m. after a small aircraft departed from the airport.
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Officials said a twin engine Piper PA-30 crashed moments after takeoff. The aircraft had just left the runway when it went down on airport property. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene following the crash.
Authorities confirmed that two people were inside the plane at the time. Both occupants suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials did not immediately release their identities.
Investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration arrived later that afternoon. Airport officials secured the area as crews examined the wreckage. The cause of the crash remains unknown at this time.
Witnesses who landed shortly after the crash reported seeing damaged debris near the runway.
Air traffic operations changed while crews worked at the site. Investigators continued gathering evidence for several hours following the incident. The National Transportation Safety Board is scheduled to lead the formal investigation.
Authorities continue investigating the crash as they work to determine what caused this tragic accident.
Our thoughts are with the victims’ loved ones during this difficult time.
Aviation Accidents in Chicago
Aviation accidents often lead to severe or fatal injuries due to high speeds and impact forces.
Small aircraft crashes can leave families facing sudden loss and unanswered questions. These incidents may involve mechanical failure, pilot error, weather conditions, or maintenance issues.
Fatal plane crashes are especially devastating because victims often have little chance to survive. Families must cope with grief while also dealing with financial and legal concerns.
Medical costs, funeral expenses, and lost future income can quickly create overwhelming pressure.
In many cases, aviation crashes raise complex legal questions. Responsibility may extend beyond the pilot to maintenance providers, aircraft manufacturers, or airport operators. These claims often fall under wrongful death law when lives are lost.
Common damages families may seek include:
- Funeral and burial expenses: Families may seek compensation for funeral services, burial costs, and related end-of-life arrangements.
- Loss of financial support and future earnings: When a loved one passes away, surviving family members may lose income and long-term financial stability.
- Medical costs related to emergency treatment: Emergency care provided before death can result in significant medical bills for the family.
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering: Families often experience deep emotional pain from losing a loved one’s guidance, care, and presence.
Investigations by federal agencies play a major role in determining what went wrong. However, official findings can take months or even years to finalize. During this time, families may still need guidance to protect their rights.
An experienced Chicago wrongful death lawyer can help gather evidence, review investigation findings, and explain available options. Legal support can also help families avoid mistakes when dealing with insurers or corporate representatives. Early action often makes a meaningful difference in preserving key details.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a fatal aviation accident in Illinois, seeking legal guidance matters. At Ankin Law, we understand how overwhelming these situations can feel during an already painful time. We help families understand their rights and pursue accountability.
Contact Ankin Law today at (844) 600-0000 to speak with our team and schedule a free consultation.
Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at the accident scene.
