Two Killed in Plane Crash Near Lake of the Ozarks Identified as Kentucky Couple
CAMDEN COUNTY, Mo. — Authorities have identified the two people killed in a small aircraft crash near the Lake of the Ozarks on Tuesday afternoon, November 3, 2026.
The victims were identified as John Peterson, 52, and Michelle Peterson, 51, both of Simpsonville, Kentucky, according to the Miller County Coroner’s Office.
Aircraft Crashes Shortly After Takeoff
The crash occurred shortly after the aircraft departed Lee C. Fine Memorial Airport, located near Lake of the Ozarks State Park.
Emergency dispatchers received a report of the crash shortly before 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and other emergency personnel responded to an area near Public Beach Drive in Camden County.
When first responders arrived, they discovered the aircraft engulfed in flames.
Firefighters with the Osage Beach Fire Protection District worked to extinguish the fire while emergency crews searched the wreckage.
Once the flames were brought under control, responders discovered two people deceased inside the aircraft.
Victims Identified Following Family Notification
The Miller County Coroner’s Office confirmed Thursday, November 5, that the victims were John and Michelle Peterson.
Both were residents of Simpsonville, Kentucky, a community located east of Louisville.
Authorities notified the victims’ next of kin before publicly releasing their identities.
Federal Investigators Examining Cause of Crash
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft’s mechanical condition, flight information, weather conditions, and other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The aircraft was reported to be a Cirrus SR22 single-engine airplane.
According to flight-tracking information reported by regional media, the aircraft had been traveling toward Wichita, Kansas, before stopping at Lee C. Fine Memorial Airport.
The aircraft reportedly crashed shortly after departing the airport.
Multiple Agencies Responded
The emergency response involved several agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Osage Beach Fire Protection District, Miller County Ambulance District, Miller County Sheriff’s Office, Camden County Sheriff’s Office, and Missouri State Parks personnel.
The Miller County Coroner’s Office is conducting a separate investigation into the cause and manner of death of both victims.
The official cause of the plane crash has not yet been determined.
The NTSB is expected to release preliminary findings as its investigation progresses, although a final report could take more than a year.
