A North Carolina community is grieving after a tragic plane crash killed a family of four just one mile from their destination.On July 7, 2025, a Cirrus SR22T crashed in Lee County near Raleigh Executive Jetport, killing Travis Buchanan, 35, his wife Candace, 35, and their two children. The family had been returning from a beach trip. The pilot had reported engine, navigation, and communication issues before the crash. The NTSB is investigating.

The Buchanans owned Buchanan Farms in Sanford, known for its produce stand and community events. Grace Christian Sanford, where the children attended school, shared emotional tributes, remembering the family’s kindness and impact.“They were light in this community,” said teacher Kirstin Schwader.The community had been looking forward to another farm-hosted charity event that weekend — now replaced by mourning and remembrance.

Just days earlier, on June 29, a twin-engine Cessna 441 crashed near Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport in Ohio, killing six — including four members of the Weller family and two crew members. The plane went down minutes after takeoff. The NTSB is also investigating.James Weller Jr., president of Liberty Steel and a prominent figure at Sharon Speedway, died along with his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. The loss deeply shook the Mahoning Valley community.It’s a real tragedy,” said Jackson Township Trustee Tom Frost. “They were great neighbors and community leaders.”Both crashes highlight the deep emotional toll sudden tragedy brings — and the strength of communities coming together in grief.