What happened
On April 18, 2025, at approximately 20:11 CDT, a Cessna 180, registration N2908C, was involved in an accident near Fremont, Nebraska. The flight was operating under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal purposes, traveling from Moundridge, Kansas, to Fremont Municipal Airport (FET).
Following the arrival at FET, the pilot and two passengers decided to conduct a short flight. The pilot's wife remained at the airport, advising the pilot to avoid flying along the river due to declining light. The aircraft departed FET at approximately 20:05.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude to the west, following the path of the river. During the flight, the aircraft struck high-tension powerlines spanning the river. An observer noted that the tail section of the aircraft separated and fell into the water during the collision. Following the impact with the lines, the aircraft initially appeared to climb and fly away, but then performed a turn and a sudden descent, impacting the river with a large splash. Video footage captured the aircraft's final turn and descent, during which the engine was heard running.
There were 3 fatal injuries resulting from the accident.