BUTLER, Mo. — With profound sadness, family members, friends, and the skydiving community are mourning the tragic loss of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp, who were reportedly among the 12 people killed in a devastating plane crash near Butler Memorial Airport on Sunday, June 14, 2026. Their deaths, along with those of the other victims aboard the aircraft, have left an immeasurable void in the hearts of countless loved ones.
According to officials, the aircraft involved was a PAC 750XL, a turboprop plane commonly used for skydiving operations. The flight departed Butler Memorial Airport shortly before 11 a.m. as part of a scheduled Skydive Kansas City operation. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reportedly turned the aircraft around for reasons that remain under investigation. Moments later, the plane crashed near Business 49 Highway in Butler, approximately 70 miles south of Kansas City.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that all 12 occupants aboard the aircraft, including 11 skydivers and the pilot, lost their lives in the crash. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but there were no survivors.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the accident, tributes continue to pour in for those who perished. Friends and fellow skydivers have begun sharing memories of lives filled with adventure, courage, friendship, and passion. Preliminary reports indicate that Jen Sharp may have been participating in a coach evaluation jump, though officials have not confirmed individual passenger roles.
While authorities have yet to release a complete official list of victims, the names of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp have been widely reported among those lost. Their memories, along with those of the other victims, will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved them. May they all rest in peace, and may their families find strength and comfort during this unimaginable time.
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