Ridgefield, WA (August 12, 2026) – Two people were taken to hospitals with serious injuries after a small plane overturned on Monday afternoon, August 11, in Clark County.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office said the aircraft went down around 1 p.m. east of Ridgefield near Daybreak Airport. Emergency units found the plane overturned near the river.
Both people aboard were seriously hurt. One person managed to get out without assistance and was found sitting on the aircraft’s wing.
Emergency units had to remove part of the plane to free the second person. One of those hurt was taken to a hospital by air ambulance, while the other went by ground ambulance.
The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the accident. The inquiry remains underway as officials work to determine what caused the wreck.
Our thoughts are with both people as they recover from their injuries.
What Happens During an Investigation of a Small-Plane Accident?
Small-aircraft investigations can involve several types of evidence. Investigators may examine the aircraft, flight records, maintenance history, weather information, and conditions at the location.
The condition of the plane can provide clues about what happened before and during the loss of control. Investigators may also review communications between the pilot and air traffic services when those records are available.
Witness accounts can offer additional details about the aircraft’s movement before it went down. Photos and physical evidence may help establish the sequence of events.
Medical information about the people aboard may also be reviewed when serious injuries occur. Investigators generally compare these sources to develop a clearer picture of the circumstances surrounding the aviation accident.
