Trilla, IL (April 20, 2025) – A tragic small-plane crash claimed the lives of four individuals on Saturday morning in Trilla, a rural community in Coles County near Mattoon.
The crash occurred around 10:15 a.m. along County Rd 1400 N, where a single-engine Cessna C180G went down, according to the Illinois State Police. Authorities confirmed that all four occupants aboard the plane were from Menomonie, Wisconsin. Each was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash site is located directly on the roadway and remains closed to the public until further notice as the investigation continues. Local emergency crews, including law enforcement and fire personnel, responded promptly to the scene and worked to secure the area for investigators.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is now leading the investigation into what caused the aircraft to go down. No additional information has been released regarding the flight’s intended destination or the identities of the victims.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident.
Aviation Crashes and Investigation Procedures in Rural Illinois
Plane crashes involving small aircraft like the Cessna C180G are rare but often result in tragic outcomes due to the aircraft’s size, speed, and limited protective features. In rural regions such as Trilla, Illinois, these incidents can be especially challenging due to the isolated terrain and the time it takes for emergency responders to reach the scene.
County Rd 1400 N, where the plane came to rest, is expected to remain closed as authorities conduct a detailed scene investigation. The NTSB will evaluate several potential causes, including weather, pilot experience, flight planning, and mechanical failure.
Recreational and personal flights are popular in the Midwest, where expansive rural areas allow for less congested skies and easier access to smaller landing fields. However, these flights come with unique safety concerns. Investigations by federal agencies often take weeks or even months, but are essential for improving flight safety and preventing future tragedies.
In the meantime, the local community in Coles County and beyond mourns the sudden loss of four lives.
For more information or to receive help after an incident, contact Local Accident Reports.
