A tragic plane crash in Middlefield Township, USA, has claimed the lives of three individuals, as reported by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Chardon Post is investigating the crash, which occurred just after 3:30 p.m. Saturday.

The three deceased occupants were identified as Thomas A. Cunningham, 76, of Rome, Ohio, John W. Taipale, 71, of Geneva, Ohio, and Alexander C. Taipale, 40, of Geneva, Ohio.

The City of Youngstown released a statement after the crash. “We are heartbroken to learn that members of our extended YNG and Youngstown aviation family were involved in this tragedy. We offer our deepest sympathies to the families of Cunningham & Taipale. We would ask for your respect for their privacy at this time. “The FAA and NTSB are leading the investigation to determine the cause and will provide any updates as information becomes available.”

A Piper Comanche 250 crashed in a field about a mile east of the Geauga County Airport, according to the release.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, Middlefield Fire Department, Geauga County Emergency Management Agency, Community Care Ambulance and the Geauga County Coroner’s Office.

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.

Source: Local media