![[04-29-2025] Pilot Killed, Passenger Injured in Small Plane Crash Near Cottonwood](https://ak1.to//Rmg4A.webp)
A pilot was killed and a passenger was seriously injured following a small plane crash near Cottonwood in Tehama County on Tuesday afternoon, April 29, 2025.
According to the Tehama County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 3:30 p.m. in a wooded area north of Phyllis Road, near a rural airstrip.
The Federal Aviation Administration later confirmed that the aircraft involved was a single-engine Aeronca Champion 7-EC, registered to a Cottonwood resident.
Witnesses reported seeing a large cloud of black smoke after the crash. The Tehama County Sheriff’s Office stated that the passenger was ejected from the aircraft, sustained severe burns, and was life-flighted from the scene for medical treatment. The pilot was pronounced deceased at the site.
Deputies and Cal Fire crews responded to the crash, and investigators from the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are continuing the investigation. The identities of the deceased pilot and the surviving passenger have not been released.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
