Pilot dies after small plane crash in Millville

MILLVILLE, N.J. - August 30, 2012 (WPVI) -- Officials with the Delaware River and Bay Authority confirm to the Action News, the pilot of a small plane that crashed in Millville has died of his injuries.

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The pilot has been identified as 60-year-old Ronald Lecates of Swedesboro, New Jersey.

Lecates was initially airlifted to Cooper University Hospital, but was transferred to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia where he later died.

The accident happened at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday at the Millville Airport on Leddon Street in Millville.

Pilots at the airport tell Action News Lecates, the owner of the airplane, was taking a flying lesson when the crash happened.

Authorities say a Beechcraft Baron Twin engine aircraft touched down on Runway 14-32 at the airport.

An eyewitness told investigators the plane bounced several times on the runway, veered off into the grass, traveled approximately 600 feet and flipped over.

First responders from several agencies converged on the scene.

Another victim was taken to Atlantic City Regional Medical Center in an unknown condition.

The plane sustained significant damage.

The airport was closed for about an hour.

The crash remains under investigation by the NTSB.

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