Tragedy on the Platte River: Authorities Identify Three Victims Killed in Small Plane Crash Near Fremont, Nebraska as FAA and NTSB Launch Full-Scale Investigation into Cause of Fatal Incident
DODGE COUNTY, NE — Tragedy struck on Friday evening, April 18, as a small aircraft crashed into the Platte River south of Fremont, Nebraska, killing all three occupants on board. On Saturday afternoon, authorities released the names of the victims, bringing a somber clarity to the devastating incident.
According to a statement from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), the deceased have been identified as:
- Daniel Williams, 43, of Moundridge, Kansas
- Jeff Bittinger, 50, of Fremont, Nebraska
- Randy Amrein, 48, also of Fremont, Nebraska
The crash occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m., sending emergency responders into swift action. Witnesses in the area reported seeing the aircraft descending rapidly before losing sight of it near the river’s edge.
Massive Emergency Response Mobilized
Upon notification of the downed aircraft, multiple agencies responded to the crash site to initiate rescue and recovery operations. According to Sgt. Brie Frank with DCSO, both air and water units were deployed in a coordinated effort to reach the wreckage, which was partially submerged in the river.
Airboats were utilized to access the crash site along the water, while an Omaha Police Department helicopter conducted aerial surveillance to aid in locating and assessing the scene. Assisting in the response were the Waterloo and Valley Fire Departments, Nebraska State Patrol, and several local and regional emergency service teams.
Despite the intensity of the rescue efforts, all three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Transferred to Federal Authorities
With the immediate search and recovery concluded, the investigation into the crash is now in the hands of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). These agencies will work jointly to determine the cause of the crash, which remains unknown as of now.
Preliminary assessments have not indicated whether weather, mechanical failure, or pilot error played a role in the incident. Authorities have not yet disclosed the aircraft’s flight path, destination, or ownership details.
Both the FAA and NTSB are expected to conduct a detailed forensic investigation, which includes recovery of the aircraft wreckage, examination of flight logs, interviews with witnesses, and review of any available flight tracking or communication data.
Public Asked to Avoid Area
Local officials have requested that members of the public stay away from the crash site as investigators continue to work. The area around the river remains active with recovery teams and equipment, and the presence of civilians could hinder their efforts.
“This is a deeply tragic event that has shaken not only the local Fremont community but families across state lines,” Sgt. Frank said. “Our hearts are with the loved ones of those lost. We ask for patience and privacy as this investigation unfolds.”
Remembering the Victims
The community of Fremont and surrounding areas are already mourning the lives lost in the crash. Friends and family members of the victims have begun sharing tributes online, remembering them as dedicated family men, professionals, and community members.
Counseling and grief support services are expected to be offered locally in the coming days as the community processes this heartbreaking loss.
Further updates will be provided as new information emerges from the ongoing federal investigation.