Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Beloved Local Doctor and Family in Columbia County

A tragic plane crash in Columbia County, New York, claimed the lives of six people, including Dr. Michael Groff, a well-regarded neurosurgeon from Rochester. The crash occurred near Copake, about 50 miles southeast of Albany, when a small Mitsubishi passenger plane failed to land at the nearby Columbia County Airport.

During a recent press briefing, officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that the plane crashed in an open field and was severely damaged. Todd Inman from the NTSB mentioned that investigators have footage capturing part of the incident, but they do not plan to share it publicly.

According to the NTSB, radar signals indicated that the plane was operating at a low altitude. Air traffic controllers tried multiple times to alert the pilot but were unsuccessful.

Dr. Groff was accompanied by family members on the flight. This included his daughter, Karenna, an accomplished former soccer player at MIT who was recently honored as the NCAA Woman of the Year. Tragically, her boyfriend, James Santoro, and her mother, Dr. Joy Saini, also lost their lives in the crash.

Dr. Groff was highly respected in his field. He was the Executive Medical Director of Neurosciences at Rochester Regional Health, where he left a significant impact through his dedication and skill. A statement from the health system expressed their deep sorrow over his passing, recognizing his clinical excellence and commitment to patient care.

They shared, “We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of Dr. Groff. His contributions to our health system are immeasurable. We ask for respect for the family’s privacy during this challenging time.”

This incident highlights the dangers associated with general aviation. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), general aviation accidents occur at a higher rate than commercial aviation, making safety awareness crucial.

As the community mourns, many are reflecting on the profound loss of such talented individuals. Social media has been filled with tributes and memories, showcasing their remarkable contributions to their fields and the lives they touched.

For further details on aviation safety and updates on the investigation, you can refer to the FAA’s official site here.

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