Minneapolis, United States: A small aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Crystal Airport on April 25, 2026, killing both people onboard, including Lawmaker Liz Conmy, a 67-year-old mom of four, and pilot pal Joe Cass, authorities confirmed.
The aircraft, identified as a Beechcraft F33A Bonanza, went down in a residential area of Brooklyn Park at approximately 11:50 a.m. local time. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before seeing flames and smoke rising from the crash site near a public park.
Officials confirmed that two occupants were onboard and both were fatally injured. Among them was North Dakota State Representative Liz Conmy, whose death has drawn tributes from political leaders across the state and pilot pal Joe Cass; the identity of the pilot has not been widely detailed in initial reports.
The North Dakota Democratic–Nonpartisan League Party, an affiliate of the national Democratic Party, confirmed Conmy’s death in a social media post, calling her a champion for public education, the environment, and transparency.
“We are completely heartbroken and gutted by the loss of Representative Liz Conmy. Her death is a profound loss for our state,” the party said in a post on X.
Despite the crash occurring in a populated suburban area, no injuries were reported on the ground, and emergency responders were able to contain the post-crash fire. Authorities secured the area as investigators began documenting debris and impact evidence.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the number of people onboard, while the National Transportation Safety Board has taken charge of the investigation. In a statement, the NTSB said it has deployed investigators to the site and will examine the wreckage, flight track data, maintenance records, and pilot history to determine the cause of the accident.
Preliminary information indicates the aircraft had just departed and was in its initial climb phase when it crashed. Authorities have not confirmed any distress call prior to the accident. Investigators typically release a preliminary report within weeks, while a final report establishing probable cause may take over a year.
The aircraft crashed and ignited upon impact, scattering debris across the park area. Local media cited officials noting the rapid emergency response and confirmation that nearby homes were not significantly impacted.
