PBSO Unveils Crash Suspects in Lake Worth Plane Incident

Details of the Plane Crash Incident

A recent incident involving a plane crash into a tree and striking a car in a residential area has raised concerns and led to an extensive investigation. The event, which occurred on Monday, was described as chaotic, with multiple individuals affected by the accident.

According to a newly released report from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO), the victims of the crash have been identified. The two individuals aboard the Orlican SRO M-8 Eagle airplane were Duncan MacClaren, 29, from Delray Beach, and Thomas Peters, 51, from Aruba. In the car that was hit, there were three members of the Cardenas family: Anita Cardenas, 46, Julisa Cardenas, 26, and Maria Cardenas, 24. Alongside them were two young boys, aged 8 and 11, all residents of Greenacres.

The preliminary information suggests that the airplane took off from the Palm Beach County Park Airport and crashed shortly after in a residential neighborhood. The wreckage was moved to a secure facility in Jacksonville for further examination. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) did not send personnel to the scene, as stated in a written statement provided to CBS12 News.

The crash happened around 4:27 p.m. on Monday, according to the offense report from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office. Witnesses and staff from the Lantana Airport reported that the plane had just taken off heading east. However, when it turned north, it encountered technical difficulties.

As the plane descended, it struck a tree near a home on Lake Osborne Drive and then collided with a gray 2020 Toyota Camry carrying the Cardenas family. The report notes that the plane finally came to rest about 150 feet east of the intersection of Lake Osborne Drive and High Ridge Road in unincorporated Lake Worth Beach. It also struck park fencing before coming to a stop off the roadway, covering the sidewalk and parking area.

Attorney Nelson Baez, who represents the Cardenas family, mentioned that they are still dealing with the trauma of the incident. “It was a scary situation. They’re all still very shaken up,” Baez said. “They’re grateful it wasn’t worse, but they’re dealing with injuries, unable to return to work, and in active follow-up with doctors.”

The report indicates that when the responding deputy arrived at the scene, there was a heavy law enforcement presence from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) and Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR). PBCFR was actively treating two pilots who were inside the crashed plane and receiving medical care.

Both pilots in the plane were taken to St. Mary's Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, while the Cardenas family was taken to Bethesda Hospital East in Boynton Beach as a precaution. At this time, the FAA and the NTSB are investigating the crash to determine the cause of the incident.

As the community continues to process the events of the day, local authorities remain committed to providing updates and ensuring public safety. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news channels and official communications.