Crime & Safety
CT Plane Crash Killed Pilot & Former NASCAR Driver Mike Stefanik
An ultralight aircraft from a RI airport crashed in Sterling Sunday, police said. Former NASCAR driver and pilot Mike Stefanik was killed.
STERLING, CT—An ultralight aircraft that had taken off from a Rhode Island airport crashed in Sterling Sunday afternoon, state police said.
The Aerolite 103, single engine, single seat, ultralight aircraft had taken off from private airfield RICONN in Coventry, just over the state line in Rhode Island, and while turning back towards the airfield crashed into a wooded area adjacent to the airport, according to Connecticut State Police Troop D.
The crash happened in a wooded area near Plainfield Pike, Route 14A, and Gibson Hill Road at 2 p.m.
Find out what's happening in Norwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Initially police said the pilot suffered severe injuries and burns. It was reported the pilot was transported to Backus Hospital and then flown via LifeStar to a Rhode Island hospital.
Tonight at 11 on @NBC10: A 92 year old World War II veteran takes to the skies, with his long time friend at the controls. pic.twitter.com/q8LatY0GwI
— Ryan Pickering (@ryanpick) August 19, 2017
The pilot, former NASCAR driver Mike Stefanik of Coventry, RI died as a result of his injuries sustained in the crash. The nine-time NASCAR champ from Massachusetts was retired from auto racing and had taken up flying.
Find out what's happening in Norwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The crash is under investigation.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
