Weiss Lake Plane Crash Claims Life of Huntsville Pilot

09/15/2012

    

 

    

     According to information released by Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver, emergency crews are on the scene of a plane crash near Riverside Campground in the Cedar Bluff area. The crash was reported to Cherokee County 911 at approximately 9:50 a.m. 

    Initial reports indicate a single engine sea plane was attempting to land in a cove, clipped power lines, and went down in Weiss Lake. Rescue efforts were initially stalled due to the dangerous situation created by the downed power lines. Tennessee Valley Authority terminated power to the lines to allow emergency crews to safely access the scene of the crash.  Divers removed the body of the pilot from the submerged plane a short time later. The pilot has been identified as 66 year old William P. Shaver of Huntsville, Alabama. Shaver's body was recovered at 12:18 p.m. by members of the Cherokee County Rescue Squad. 

     The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are enroute to the scene.  The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee County, Piedmont, and Fisher Rescue Squads, Cherokee Emergency Medical Services, Cherokee County Emergency Management Association, Alabama Marine Police, and the Alabama State Trooper Aviation Unit responded to the scene and are assisting in recovery efforts.

     Sheriff Jeff Shaver, on behalf of the Cherokee County Sheriff's Department, Rescue Squad, Fire and EMS personell and citizens of Cherokee County wishes to extend our deepest heartfelt condolences to all the family and friends of the pilot, Mr. William P. Shaver, in the wake of this tragic accident.