MONROE TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Emergency crews responded to a mass casualty incident Wednesday evening after a skydiving aircraft crashed at Cross Keys Airport, leaving multiple people injured, including the pilot.
According to a joint statement from Gloucester County and the Monroe Township Police Department, the crash occurred around 5:25 p.m. on July 2. First responders confirmed the aircraft, a Cessna Caravan 208B single-engine turboprop leased by Sky Dive Cross Keys, went down shortly after takeoff. Preliminary reports indicate the pilot had reported engine trouble.
The aircraft was carrying 15 adult occupants at the time of the crash. Several passengers suffered severe injuries, and all individuals, including the pilot, received medical attention. One declined transport, while others were taken to local hospitals. The majority were transported to Cooper University Hospital’s Trauma Center in Camden.
The pilot, who was heavily entrapped in the wreckage, was extricated following a prolonged rescue effort. Several passengers had been contaminated with jet fuel and required decontamination before treatment.
As of Thursday morning, eight patients remained hospitalized, with three in critical condition.
The Federal Aviation Administration is leading the investigation with support from local authorities.
