Kentucky, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Federal investigators’ final report attributes the September 27 plane crash in Kentucky to hazardous weather and flight instructor negligence. The incident involved the deaths of flight student Connor Quisenberry and his instructor Timothy McKellar. The National Transportation Safety Board revealed that McKellar’s decision to fly into thunderstorms was critical. Following the crash, a wrongful death lawsuit was filed by Quisenberry’s family targeting Eagle Flight Academy and ATP Flight Academy for negligence, highlighting the need for improved safety in flight training.
Owensboro, Kentucky – Federal investigators have unveiled the final report attributing the tragic September 27, 2023, plane crash in Ohio County to hazardous weather conditions and negligence by the flight instructor. The incident resulted in the deaths of 18-year-old Connor Quisenberry, a flight student, and 22-year-old Timothy “Junior” McKellar, Jr., his flight instructor.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) determined that McKellar’s decision to proceed with the flight despite known thunderstorms was a critical factor leading to the in-flight breakup of the aircraft. Both individuals were on a night cross-country training flight from Bowling Green to Owensboro when the crash occurred in a remote area near Whitesville. The aircraft, a Piper PA-28, could not withstand the severe weather conditions it encountered.
Investigators confirmed that there were no mechanical issues found with the aircraft involved in the crash. Preliminary recordings from air traffic control indicated that significant weather warnings had been issued for that area, highlighting “heavy to extreme” rain. Shortly before communication was lost with air traffic control, McKellar reported that the aircraft was “getting blown around like crazy” and experiencing “extreme turbulence.”
Prior to the flight, McKellar’s social media activity raised concerns as he exhibited risky behavior and demonstrated an awareness of the approaching storms. Posts on Snapchat included derogatory comments about Quisenberry, referring to him as “Forrest Gump Jr,” which has led to further scrutiny regarding McKellar’s professionalism and treatment of his student.
In response to the tragedy, Quisenberry’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit in September 2024. The lawsuit claims that the flight was “totally unnecessary and avoidable” and names the Eagle Flight Academy and ATP Flight Academy, from where McKellar received his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) certificate, among others. The legal action seeks a jury trial, compensation for funeral expenses, and unspecified damages.
The crash resulted in a debris field spanning 25 acres, with critical components of the aircraft scattered across the area. The ongoing NTSB investigation is expected to last several months, ultimately aiming to determine a final cause for the incident. As part of their lawsuit, Quisenberry’s parents are advocating for reforms in flight training protocols to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Both Eagle Flight Academy and ATP Flight Academy are accused of negligence for employing McKellar, given his questionable performance and safety record. The family’s efforts highlight the need for increased safety measures and accountability within flight training institutions.
Key Facts
- Date of Crash: September 27, 2023
- Location: Ohio County, Kentucky
- Victims: Connor Quisenberry (18) and Timothy McKellar, Jr. (22)
- Aircraft: Piper PA-28
- NTSB Findings: Continue flying into known thunderstorms was the probable cause
- Lawsuit Filed: September 2024 by Quisenberry’s family
- Accused Parties: Eagle Flight Academy and ATP Flight Academy
- Legal Claims: Wrongful death, negligence
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the plane crash in Kentucky?
The crash was caused by poor weather conditions and the flight instructor’s decision to continue flying into known thunderstorms, leading to an in-flight breakup of the aircraft.
Who were the victims of the crash?
The victims were 18-year-old flight student Connor Quisenberry and 22-year-old flight instructor Timothy “Junior” McKellar, Jr.
What legal actions have been taken following the crash?
Quisenberry’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Eagle Flight Academy and ATP Flight Academy, claiming negligence in employing McKellar.
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Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
