DETROIT, Mich. — Two passengers aboard a plane that went down in Detroit over the weekend are alive thanks to the quick actions of those nearby.
The single-engine plane was traveling from Arkansas to Coleman A. Young International Airport Sunday when the pilot stated he was experiencing problems with the landing gear. He was also short on fuel. The plane reportedly then hit a power line and tree, before crashing in a vacant lot, CBS News reported.
Thankfully, neighbors nearby heard the crash and rushed to help.
Cameras were rolling as two men – one of whom was identified as Larry Whitfield – rushed to help.
“One guy, big guys, by a window couldn’t get out and he couldn’t breathe. I had a stick. Didn’t work, so another guy got an ax,” he said.
As others yelled at them to move away from the flames, they managed to break through. The act allowed the man inside to escape, reported the Detroit Free Press.
Family members have identified the two people killed as Greg and Jule Boaz of Texas. Their 17-year-old son was able to escape the wreckage, but he was said to be in critical condition.
According to the NTSB, the plane stopped in West Memphis, Arkansas to refuel before heading to Detroit.
