A private plane crashed in upstate New York over the weekend, taking the lives of six people, including a beloved family of doctors and promising young athletes. They were headed to celebrate a birthday and the Passover holiday in the Catskills when tragedy struck.
The twin-engine Mitsubishi MU-2B went down shortly after noon Saturday in a muddy field in Copake, close to the Massachusetts border. All on board were killed, according to local authorities and a family source who spoke with The Associated Press.
Victims included Karenna Groff, a former MIT soccer player honored as the 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year, her father, Dr. Michael Groff, a noted neuroscientist, her mother, Dr. Joy Saini, a urogynecologist, and her boyfriend, James Santoro, also a recent MIT grad. John Santoro, James’ father, expressed his heartbreak, saying, "The world lost a lot of very good people who were going to do a lot of good."
Karenna’s achievements were significant. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she co-founded openPPE, creating new mask designs for essential workers. Her dedication to both sports and community led her to receive the NCAA award for her accomplishments both on and off the field. She acknowledged the support from her MIT soccer family in an interview about her recognition.
After graduation, the couple moved to Manhattan. Karenna enrolled in medical school at New York University, while James worked as an investment associate at Silver Point, a hedge fund in Connecticut. They took off from the airport in White Plains, NY, aiming for the Columbia County Airport, but instead crashed about 20 miles south.
The crash site presented challenges for emergency responders due to muddy terrain. The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation, with updates expected soon. Meanwhile, funeral arrangements are being organized. John Santoro reminisced about his son, saying, "The 25 years we had with James were the best years of our lives."
Incidents like this remind us of the unpredictable nature of life. The sudden loss has left a profound impact on their community. According to recent statistics from the National Transportation Safety Board, small plane crashes constitute a significant portion of aviation accidents, highlighting the need for ongoing safety improvements in private aviation.
Tragic events often evoke a wave of compassion and support on social media. Users have been sharing memories and expressing their sorrow, showcasing the tight-knit bonds formed around shared experiences in sports and academics. As we reflect on this heartbreaking incident, it serves as a reminder to cherish every moment with loved ones.
For more insights on aviation safety and crash statistics, visit the National Transportation Safety Board.
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