Fresno, CA (September 7, 2026) – A deadly plane crash claimed the lives of two children and left two adults critically injured near the San Joaquin River in Fresno on Saturday afternoon, September 5. The aircraft went down shortly before 2 p.m. near Sierra Sky Park Airport.
The four-seat, single-engine plane crashed near the airport runway and went over a cliff into a wilderness area. It was not immediately known whether the aircraft was arriving or departing when the crash occurred. Two children were pronounced dead at the scene. The two adults aboard the plane were taken to a local hospital in critical condition.
Emergency units extinguished the resulting fire and prevented the flames from spreading to nearby homes. The crash also briefly disrupted power to nearby residences, which was later restored. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash.
The identities, ages, and relationships of those aboard had not been released. Our condolences go out to the families of the children who died, and our thoughts are with the two adults who remain critically injured.
What Can Happen When a Small Plane Crashes?
Small aircraft crashes can result in serious injuries because occupants are exposed to the forces generated during an impact. The outcome can vary based on the aircraft’s speed, altitude, impact location, and the type of terrain involved.
Aviation crash investigations may examine the aircraft, weather conditions, maintenance records, flight path, and other available evidence. Investigators can use this information to determine what happened before the aircraft went down and identify factors that may have contributed to the crash.
