AVERY COUNTY, N.C.—A single-engine plane crash at the Avery County Airport (Morrison Field) on Friday morning has tragically claimed the life of the pilot, authorities have confirmed.
The North Carolina State Highway Patrol and local emergency services responded to the crash at the general aviation airport, located in the western part of the state, just before noon.
Experienced Pilot Identified
The fatal incident occurred around 11:45 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025. Troopers later confirmed that the crash involved a single, small aircraft with only the pilot on board.
- Victim Identified: The pilot was identified as 75-year-old James Perry Webb of Bakersville, North Carolina.
- Local Community Member: A county spokesperson confirmed that Mr. Webb was a long-time, experienced pilot and a local community member who maintained a private hangar at the airport.
The exact cause of the crash remains unknown.
Federal Investigation Takes Over
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) were immediately notified of the deadly crash. Teams from both federal agencies are now on the scene to take over the investigation.
The NTSB will lead the inquiry, examining all factors that may have contributed to the accident, including weather conditions, mechanical failure, and pilot actions. Troopers have stated that any further official information regarding the cause will come directly from the federal agencies.
Conclusion
The loss of life in the Avery County plane crash is a deep tragedy for the local aviation community, particularly given the victim’s extensive experience. The immediate response from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and local fire officials secured the scene, and the investigation will now begin the difficult process of determining the cause of the accident. The focus remains on providing support to the pilot’s family and ensuring the integrity of the investigation.
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Disclaimer
This report is based on information provided by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the Avery County Fire Marshal, and local county officials regarding the fatal crash on October 17, 2025. The facts regarding the pilot’s identity and the time of the crash are accurate to preliminary reports. The cause is under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) (https://www.ntsb.gov/) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (https://www.faa.gov/)
