Pilot killed in Spotsylvania County plane crash identified as youth program leader
Pilot killed in Virginia single-engine plane crash identified
A pilot killed in a Spotsylvania County plane crash has been identified as a man from Caroline County, Virginia.
FREDERICKSBURG, VA. - A 78-year-old Virginia man was killed Tuesday morning when his single-engine plane crashed near Shannon Airport in Spotsylvania County.
What we know:
Rowland "Rolly" Babcock, Jr., of Ruther Glen, Virginia, was the only person on board the aircraft and died from injuries sustained in the crash, which occurred at 11:05 a.m., according to state police.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified the aircraft as a Montana Coyote.
What they're saying:
Babcock was the head of the Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles program and supporter of Shannon Airport's Harvest Festival, leaders said in a tribute shared Wednesday.
"Year after year, he generously gave of his time, his talents, and his heart to help introduce young people and families to the joy and wonder of aviation. His enthusiasm, kindness, and unwavering commitment made a lasting difference in the lives of countless people, and he will be deeply missed by all of us at Shannon," airport officials said.
What's next:
Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board have been notified and will investigate the cause of the crash, according to state police.
The Source: Information from the Federal Aviation Administration and Virginia State Police.