Octorara School Board President Sam Ganow killed in small plane crash in Coatesville

(Coatesville, Pennsylvania) – A small plane crashed at the rear of a property in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, around 1:40 p.m. on Thursday, Channel3 NOW has learned.

The incident took place on the 500 block of Old Wilmington Road. Regrettably, there is one fatality reported.

Octorara School Board President Sam Ganow was involved in a plane crash in the Coatesville area today. Sam has served as a school board member for 26 years with dedication, respect, and integrity.

It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share with you the news of the tragic passing of our School Board President, Mr. Sam Ganow. Earlier today, we learned that Sam lost his life in a plane crash in Coatesville, leaving us with a deep sense of loss and grief. Mr. Ganow was not only a dedicated member of the Octorara Area School District School Board but also a cherished and respected member of our community. Mr. Ganow served the Octorara community as a school board member for 26 years. His commitment to education and his tireless efforts to enhance the educational experience for our students made a lasting impact on our school district. Personally, Sam was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather, active member of his local church community and the owner of an equipment rental business for decades. For years he has also been deeply committed to the international skiing circuit, serving as a judge for hundreds of ski events all around the US and the world. He also competed in multiple marathon races annually, most recently completing the Disney Marathon weekend in January. Sam’s loss will be felt across a number of communities.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), only the pilot was aboard the aircraft during the crash.

The FAA identified the plane as a twin-engine Gulfstream American GA-7. Emergency responders arrived at the scene just before 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, observing the plane wreckage in what appears to be someone’s backyard.

The crashed plane was situated on the ground near the tree line behind a house.

The FAA is collaborating with the National Transportation Safety Board to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

According to source, aircraft recently departed from the airport, carrying approximately 80 gallons of fuel on board.

Requesting full assistance from STA31 company.

The plane is down in the field with no reported fire.

This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.