Payson, AZ (August 12, 2026) – Two people were killed late Monday night after a small plane crashed in the northern Arizona wilderness near Payson, Gila County.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a Glasair Sportsman 2+2 went down at approximately 11 p.m. on August 10. The crash site was located west of Polles Mesa in the Mazatzal Wilderness, according to the Gila County Sheriff’s Office.
Because of the remote and rugged terrain, the Gila County Sheriff’s Office received assistance from helicopters operated by the Maricopa County and Pinal County sheriff’s offices. The Maricopa County helicopter located the crash site, while the Pinal County helicopter transported deputies to the area so an initial investigation could be conducted.
Authorities identified the two occupants as 75-year-old Brad Lawrence and 19-year-old Carter Buckner, both of Payson. Both died in the crash.
The cause of the plane crash has not yet been determined. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA are investigating the incident.
Why Remote Plane Crash Sites Make Investigations More Difficult
Investigating an aircraft crash in a remote area can present significant challenges for emergency crews and investigators. Rugged terrain, limited road access, darkness, and difficult weather conditions can make reaching the site more complicated and may require specialized aircraft or other resources.
Investigators typically document the crash site, examine the aircraft and surrounding terrain, and collect evidence that may help establish what happened before the aircraft went down. The NTSB and FAA may also review aircraft records, weather conditions, flight information, and other available evidence as they work to determine the cause.
