Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Rhode Island Couple on Interstate 195 in Dartmouth, Massachusetts
DARTMOUTH, MASSACHUSETTS — A small plane crash early Monday morning on Interstate 195 in Dartmouth claimed the lives of a Rhode Island couple, leaving the local community shaken and investigators searching for answers.
Authorities have identified the victims as Thomas Perkins, 68, and his wife, Agatha “Aggie” Perkins, 66, both longtime residents of Middletown, Rhode Island. The couple was found inside the fuselage of their single-engine aircraft at the crash site and were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office.
Details of the Crash
The tragic accident occurred at approximately 8:00 a.m. near Exit 22 on I-195, where the Socata TBM 700 — a single-engine turboprop aircraft — went down on the grassy median of the highway. The aircraft had just taken off from New Bedford Regional Airport, located about 10 miles south of the crash site.
Witnesses reported seeing the plane struggling shortly after takeoff before it descended rapidly and struck the median, breaking apart on impact. The force of the crash scattered debris over nearby woods and onto the highway. The plane then caught fire, with flames and thick black smoke billowing from the wreckage.
Injuries on the Ground
In addition to the tragic deaths of the couple aboard the plane, a Massachusetts woman driving along the interstate was struck by debris when a portion of the aircraft hit her car, a silver Hyundai Sonata. Emergency responders transported her to St. Luke’s Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. She was later released but remains shaken by the incident. Her family described her condition as “traumatized but okay.”
Challenging Weather Conditions
The crash occurred amid challenging weather conditions as a nor’easter swept through the region, bringing strong winds with gusts reaching up to 40 knots and heavy rain. Aviation experts suggest the couple’s plane may have encountered difficulties due to the turbulent weather or mechanical issues shortly after takeoff.
Officials speculate that the pilot may have been attempting an emergency landing or trying to return to New Bedford Regional Airport when the crash occurred. The Massachusetts State Police reported that the plane attempted an emergency landing on the grassy median of I-195, a maneuver often used in dire situations when safe landing elsewhere is impossible.
Ongoing Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), along with local and state authorities, has launched a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Investigators are examining the plane’s maintenance history, weather conditions, pilot communications, and any mechanical factors that may have contributed to the tragedy.
The aircraft, registered to Easton Air LLC, a company based in Middletown, Rhode Island, will undergo detailed examination by experts to determine if any technical malfunction played a role.
Community Reaction and Memorials
News of the crash and the deaths of Thomas and Agatha Perkins has sent shockwaves through the Middletown community, where the couple was known as warm and active members of the community. Friends and neighbors remember them fondly, describing Thomas and Agatha as kind, loving, and devoted.
Local leaders expressed their condolences to the Perkins family, emphasizing the profound sadness over the loss of two lives in such tragic circumstances.
A Reminder of Aviation Risks and Safety
This devastating incident serves as a solemn reminder of the risks that pilots and passengers face when navigating difficult weather conditions. Aviation safety experts continue to stress the importance of rigorous pre-flight checks, real-time weather monitoring, and adherence to safety protocols.
Summary
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Victims: Thomas Perkins (68) and Agatha Perkins (66), Middletown, Rhode Island
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Aircraft: Socata TBM 700 single-engine turboprop
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Crash Location: Interstate 195 median, near Exit 22, Dartmouth, MA
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Time: Approximately 8:00 a.m., Monday morning
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Weather: Nor’easter with heavy rain and gusts up to 40 knots
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Injured: One female motorist struck by debris; non-life-threatening injuries
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Investigation: Ongoing by NTSB and local authorities
As the investigation continues, the thoughts and prayers of both communities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts remain with the Perkins family during this profoundly difficult time. More details will be released as authorities uncover new information about the tragic accident.
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