Pilot identified in fatal Fourth of July plane crash near Lock Haven
Maisie Bitler. SUN-GAZETTE PHOTO
WOODWARD TOWNSHIP — Clinton County Coroner Zach Hanna has identified the victim in a deadly plane crash that took place on July 4.
According to a release from Hanna, he pronounced Maisie Bitler, 17, of Hughesville, dead at the scene on July 4.
Multiple fire crews were called to the area of 200 Allegheny St. in Woodward Township on Fourth of July morning for reports of a plane crash in a wooded area nearby.
The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are currently investigating the incident.
“During the on-scene phase of the investigative process, the NTSB does not determine or speculate about the cause of the accident. A preliminary report will be available within 30 days; it can be accessed by searching our investigations database with the NTSB number ERA24FA292,” the release said. “It will also be posted on NTSB Newsroom Twitter.”
The preliminary report will contain information gathered during the initial phase of the investigation with a probable cause of the crash along with any contributing factors detailed in the final report, which is expected in 12-24 months.
“NTSB investigations involve three primary areas: the pilot, the aircraft and the operating environment,” the release said.
Maisie spoke to the Sun-Gazette last month about her love of aviation.