Five members of a metro Atlanta family tragically died in a plane crash while returning home from a baseball tournament in New York.

Incident Details

On Sunday afternoon, New York State Police (NYSP) responded to a report of a plane crash in Masonville, New York, a rural area located about an hour south of Cooperstown, the site of the baseball tournament. The incident occurred around 2:30 PM, and search and rescue teams were promptly dispatched to locate the wreckage.

Discovery of the Wreckage

Upon arrival, search teams found the wreckage in a heavily wooded area. The crash site was difficult to access, complicating recovery efforts. Tragically, all five passengers on board were found deceased in the wreckage.

Victim Identification

The victims were identified as:

- Roger Beggs, 76: The patriarch of the family, remembered for his love of flying and dedication to his family.

- Laura Van Epps, 43: Daughter of Roger Beggs, known for her community involvement and caring nature.

- Ryan Van Epps, 42: Husband of Laura, a beloved coach and mentor in the local baseball community.

- James R. Van Epps, 12: Son of Laura and Ryan, a promising young athlete with a bright future.

- Harrison Van Epps, 10: Younger son of Laura and Ryan, known for his enthusiasm and love for the sport.

Flight Path and Purpose

The family had been in Cooperstown for a baseball tournament, an event they were excited to attend. They were en route to West Virginia for a scheduled refueling stop before continuing their journey back to Cobb County International Airport in Atlanta. The plane, a single-engine Piper PA-32, was piloted by Roger Beggs, who had decades of flying experience.

Cause of the Crash

NYSP has not yet determined the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that weather conditions were relatively clear, but investigators are looking into other potential factors such as mechanical failure or pilot error. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have joined the investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Official Response

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his condolences in a statement: “As we learn of this tragic news, please join Marty, the girls, and me in praying for the loved ones of the Beggs and Van Epps families. We offer our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved them.”

Community Impact

The loss has deeply affected the Cobb County community, where the family was well-known and loved. Local schools, sports teams, and community organizations have expressed their grief and support for the surviving family members. Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives of the deceased.

Support and Counseling

In response to the tragedy, local officials are providing grief counseling and support services to friends, teammates, and community members affected by the loss. Schools attended by James and Harrison Van Epps have brought in additional counselors to support grieving students and staff.

Remembering the Family

Friends and neighbors describe the Beggs and Van Epps families as pillars of their community. They were heavily involved in local activities, from youth sports to charity events. Ryan Van Epps was particularly noted for his role as a coach, shaping the lives of many young athletes.