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Three lives were lost when a Cirrus SR22T aircraft crashed into a field near Iotla Church Road, just beside Iotla Valley Elementary School, around 3 p.m. Thursday The plane went down close to the Macon County Airport, prompting a large emergency response and road closures. Authorities confirmed the crash did not occur on school grounds, and all students and staff were unharmed.

A tragic aviation accident near a Macon County school has left the community grieving and searching for answers. Authorities confirmed that a small aircraft went down in close proximity to the school grounds, prompting an immediate response from emergency crews and law enforcement. While the incident sparked fear among parents and residents, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office was quick to reassure families that the school itself was never in danger. 

Students and staff remained safe throughout the ordeal, and no injuries were reported within the school community.The crash, however, claimed the lives of those onboard the aircraft. Officials have not yet released the names of the deceased, pending notification of family members. Recovery crews worked through the day to secure the wreckage and preserve evidence critical to 

understanding what led to the accident.Responsibility for the investigation is being shared among multiple agencies. The North Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the local response, while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are conducting thorough reviews into the cause of the crash. 

Their work will include examining flight data, aircraft maintenance records, pilot history, and weather conditions at the time of the accident. This process may take weeks or even months before conclusive findings are released.In the meantime, grief has settled over the area. Residents have expressed their sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families, offering prayers, 

condolences, and support in this painful time. Local leaders are also working to provide counseling and resources for those emotionally impacted by the tragedy, especially students who witnessed the aftermath.As Macon County awaits the results of the investigation, the focus remains on honoring the memory of the deceased and supporting their loved ones through unimaginable loss.