Texas plane crash: At least 1 person dies as jet plunges near airport in horror incident

By Alice Scarsi, World News Editor

At least one person died in the plane crash (Image: CBS News)

Investigations are underway after a horrific plane crash that left at least one person dead. The small aircraft plunged to the ground near Propwash Airport, which is in Justin, Texas, at around 7.15pm on Friday (1.15am Saturday UK time). 

Emergency services rushed to the scene following the incident, with a City of Justin spokesperon confirming "multiple investigations" were underway. Justin Fire Department said the circumstances of the crash involving the 2019 Sabrewing Lightsport aircraft were unknown and that the number of people on board and that extent of injuries was being assessed. An eyewitness told CBS News Texas that he saw the plane experiencing a problem.

He said the pilot attempted to return to the airport but crashed before reaching it. 

Justin Fire Chief Matthew Mitchell said: "Our thoughts are with those involved and their families. We are actively working to gather more information and ensure the safety of those in the surrounding area."

Residents have been urged to avoid the area as investigations continue.

The incident comes after three people were killed and one was injured in a small plane crash in Florida on Friday morning. 

The assistant chief of Boca Raton Fire Rescue said the plane crash that killed all three people on board emitted a fireball when it hit the ground, injuring a person in a nearby car.

This came just a day after a New York City sightseeing helicopter broke apart in midair and crashed into the Hudson River, killing the pilot and a family of five Spanish tourists.

There have been a number of high-profile aviation incidents in recent months, including a midair collision of a passenger jet and military helicopter that killed 67 people near Washington in January.

Officials have attempted to reassure travellers that flying - as proven by statistics - is the safest mode of transport.