A family of five headed to New York for a youth baseball tournament lost their lives in a horrific plane crash on June 30.
The family flew in a single-engine Piper Malibu Mirage from Oneonta Municipal Airport in central New York.
According to CNN, the plane crashed in Masonville, New York, about 90 miles southeast of Syracuse.
This horrific tragedy claimed the lives of Roger Beggs, 76; Laura VanEpps, 43; Ryan VanEpps, 42; James R. VanEpps, 12; and Harrison VanEpps, 10.
The family was returning to Georgia after settling in Cooperstown, New York, home of a baseball tournament and home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Local police reported receiving a report of a possible accident around 2:00 p.m. on Sunday. They began searching the area around Lake Cecil Road using ATVs, drones, and helicopters.
The crash site and downed plane were finally found after a long search. Reports indicate that the plane was piloted by Roger Beggs. There were reports that the flight plan called for a stop in West Virginia to refuel before flying to Atlanta.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed his sympathy on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday, July 1. As we read this terrible news, please join Marty, the daughters, and me in praying for the Beggs and VanEpps families.
My condolences to all who knew and loved them,” he continued.
Please join Marty, the girls,, and me in praying for the beloved Beggs and VanEpps families as we hear this terrible news. My condolences to all who knew and loved them. t.co/HZUOYzDg1x is the URL. — Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) July 1, 2024
Ryan VanEpps’ sister, Ansley VanEpps, also shared her pain and sadness at the passing of her family members. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), state police, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are conducting investigations to determine the cause of the incident.
Our deepest sympathies and best wishes are with the VanEpps family and friends during this difficult time.
The tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of the VanEpps and Beggs families is a stark reminder of the fragility of life. As they embarked on what was supposed to be a joyous trip to a youth baseball tournament, their untimely deaths left a deep impact on their community and loved ones.
The heartfelt condolences from friends, family, and public officials following this devastating event reflect the deep bonds and love shared between those affected. Governor Brian Kemp’s expression of sympathy underscores the collective grief felt by many in Georgia and beyond.
As the FAA, State Police, and NTSB investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the circumstances that led to this tragedy. Meanwhile, the VanEpps family and those who knew them continue to grieve, seeking comfort in shared memories and support from their community.
This incident not only highlights the risks associated with aviation but also serves as a reminder to cherish our loved ones and our moments together. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families who are grieving their deep loss.