Lyle Panepinto and Lauren Menkemeller obituary , death:Tragically Killed in Seaplane Crash Near Houma-Terrebonne Regional Airport: FAA and NTSB Investigate Fatal Accident, Authorities Work to Determine Cause
A devastating seaplane crash in Raceland, Louisiana, has claimed the lives of two individuals, leaving the community in shock and mourning. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday night, with the aircraft going down in a marshy area near the intersection of Highway 90 and Highway 182 [1].
According to Lafourche Parish President Archie Chiasson, the seaplane had taken off from a body of water in the New Orleans area and was en route to Houma-Terrebonne Regional Airport when it crashed. The two victims in the crash have been identified as Lyle Panepinto and Lauren Menkemeller [1].
*Search and Rescue Efforts*
Authorities worked through the night in search and rescue efforts, but darkness and the challenging marshy terrain made operations difficult. Chiasson stated that once daylight arrived, crews were able to locate the wreckage. The search and rescue efforts were a collaborative effort between local authorities, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other emergency responders [1].
*Investigation and Cause of the Crash*
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now investigating the incident. The FAA confirmed the aircraft was a Cessna 210 and reported that it crashed near Houma-Terrebonne Airport at approximately 8:30 p.m. on April 2 [1].
The NTSB has taken the lead on the investigation and will provide further updates as more details emerge. Authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, and investigators are working to determine what may have caused the fatal accident [1].
*Aircraft and Pilot Information*
The Cessna 210 is a six-seat, single-engine aircraft commonly used for personal and business transportation. The aircraft was registered to a private owner, and the pilot’s identity has not been released [1].
*Community Response and Support*
The tragic seaplane crash has left the community in shock, and friends and family of Lyle Panepinto and Lauren Menkemeller have taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of the victims [1].
The Houma-Terrebonne community is coming together to support the families of the victims during this difficult time. Local organizations and community leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any concerns or information regarding the crash to the authorities immediately [1].
*Incident Timeline*
– Wednesday, approximately 8:30 p.m.: The seaplane crashes in a marshy area near the intersection of Highway 90 and Highway 182.
– Wednesday night: Authorities work through the night in search and rescue efforts, but darkness and the challenging marshy terrain make operations difficult.
– Thursday morning: Crews locate the wreckage after daylight arrives.
– Ongoing: The FAA and NTSB investigate the incident, and authorities work to determine the cause of the fatal crash.
*References*
[1] Lafourche Parish President Archie Chiasson’s statement and reports from local authorities.