Tragedy in the Skies: Small Plane Crash Near Mattoon Claims Four Lives, Leaves Menomonie Community Grieving

Mattoon, IL – April 19, 2025 — A devastating plane crash has shattered the hearts of many across Wisconsin and Illinois, as four beloved individuals lost their lives when a small aircraft went down just outside of Mattoon late Saturday morning. The crash, which involved a Cessna 180, occurred after the plane struck overhead utility wires during its descent, causing it to crash in a rural area just short of the local airport.

Authorities confirmed that Ross Nelson, Raimi Rundle, and Courtney and Michael Morrow—all of whom were aboard the aircraft—died at the scene. The crash occurred on April 19, shortly before midday, and wreckage from the aircraft was found scattered across an open field and nearby road, marking the site of a tragedy that has left an entire community in mourning.

A Routine Flight Turns Fatal

According to preliminary reports from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and local emergency services, the Cessna 180 was en route to the Mattoon area, possibly for a leisure or personal trip. Weather conditions at the time were described as moderately clear with slight gusts, though investigators have not yet ruled out other contributing factors such as mechanical failure or pilot error.

As the aircraft approached the Mattoon Airport, it reportedly clipped a series of overhead power lines, causing it to veer sharply before plunging to the ground. The impact was described as catastrophic. First responders arriving on the scene were met with a wreckage site strewn across a wide radius, leaving no signs of survivability.

Emergency services cordoned off the area while recovery efforts were undertaken. Tragically, all four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.

Victims Remembered

The loss is being felt most acutely in Menomonie, Wisconsin, where the victims hailed from. Friends, neighbors, and extended family have described the deceased as pillars of their community—hardworking, kind, and deeply interconnected with local life.

• Ross Nelson, known as a skilled pilot and respected mentor in the aviation community, had logged hundreds of hours in flight. Friends say his passion for flying was only matched by his generosity and love for teaching others.
• Raimi Rundle, an adventurous and spirited individual in her early 30s, was widely admired for her compassion and love of travel. She had recently been working with local nonprofits and was seen as a bright light in any room she entered.
• Courtney and Michael Morrow, a married couple in their late 40s, were described as inseparable. Michael, an engineer, and Courtney, a high school teacher, were beloved by peers and students alike. They leave behind two teenage children who are now grappling with the sudden loss of both parents.

“This has absolutely broken us,” said family friend Melissa Hart. “We’re a small town. Everyone knows everyone. To lose four people at once like this—it’s unimaginable. They weren’t just residents. They were leaders, volunteers, and friends.”

Investigations Underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the NTSB have launched a joint investigation to determine the cause of the crash. A team of specialists arrived on the scene Saturday afternoon to document the wreckage, assess potential equipment failure, and analyze flight data and communication logs.

While no official cause has been declared, the visible damage to the overhead wires near the crash site supports witness accounts that the plane was flying at a dangerously low altitude in the final moments before impact.

Authorities have asked that any witnesses who may have seen or heard the aircraft shortly before the crash contact local law enforcement or the FAA to aid the investigation.

A Community in Mourning

The town of Menomonie, still in shock from the sudden loss, has already begun organizing vigils, prayer circles, and memorial services. Local churches and community centers have opened their doors to grieving families and friends, offering grief counseling and space for remembrance.

The Menomonie High School, where Courtney Morrow taught English literature, held a moment of silence Monday morning, and students are creating a memorial mural in her honor. Michael’s engineering firm has pledged a donation to the family’s support fund and will be establishing a scholarship in his name for aspiring engineers.

“Our hearts are shattered,” said Menomonie Mayor Lisa Thorsen in a statement. “To lose these four souls in such a tragic and sudden way is more than our community can bear. We send our love, prayers, and deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones left behind.”

support

Your kindness, prayers, and generosity mean more than words can say. Every donation, no matter the size, is a step toward healing for these families and this heartbroken community. Thank you for standing with Menomonie in this time of sorrow.

Grief counselors have also been made available at local schools, churches, and through regional mental health services.

Looking Ahead

As investigations continue and loved ones gather to mourn, one thing remains clear: the legacy of Ross, Raimi, Courtney, and Michael will not be forgotten. Their lives, cut tragically short, will be remembered through stories, tributes, and the lasting impact they had on everyone who knew them.

Though hearts are heavy in Menomonie and beyond, the community stands united in grief—and in love.