Sanford, North Carolina is grappling with unimaginable loss after the Buchanan family’s plane crashed during what should have been a routine flight home from vacation. The July 7 tragedy claimed the lives of Travis and Candace Buchanan and their two children, leaving friends, neighbors, and local businesses devastated.
The Cirrus SR22T had departed Merritt Island, Florida when the pilot reported escalating mechanical issues to air traffic control. Despite being just minutes from landing at Raleigh Executive Jetport, the aircraft went down in a Lee County field. NTSB investigator Ryan Enders confirmed the agency will examine the pilot’s recent flight history and the plane’s maintenance records as part of their probe.
At Buchanan Farms—the family’s thriving agricultural business—customers and employees gathered in shock. “They built this place to bring people together,” said photographer Nickie Runyan, recalling the farm’s popular community events. Local restaurant owner Andrea Adame broke down describing the Buchanans’ commitment to creating a welcoming space for families.
As tributes pour in, the tragedy underscores aviation’s inherent risks. The crash comes just days after another fatal plane accident in Ohio that killed six, including a prominent local family and an experienced flight instructor.
