Enfield Plane Crash Obituary, Death: Two Killed After Small Aircraft Crashes Near Ithaca, New York

ENFIELD, N.Y. — The Enfield community and surrounding Tompkins County area are mourning the deaths of two men who were killed following a small aircraft crash near North Applegate Road on Sunday.

The victims were identified as David Kornreich, 52, the owner of the aircraft, and Andrew R. Harrell, 31, who was also aboard the plane. Their deaths have brought sadness to family members, friends, and everyone affected by the tragic incident.

What Happened

According to Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne, the aircraft involved was a 1977 Lake LA-4-200 carrying two people when it crashed in Enfield, located west of Ithaca.

Authorities reported that the aircraft had been cleared for takeoff from Ithaca Airport at approximately 11:24 a.m. The plane’s final communication with the airport control tower was recorded at approximately 12:02 p.m.

A witness contacted 911 at around 12:35 p.m. to report that the aircraft had crashed. The witness reportedly indicated that the plane appeared to have experienced a possible mechanical issue before going down. Investigators have not confirmed whether mechanical failure contributed to the crash.

Emergency crews responded to the scene shortly afterward, with multiple agencies assisting in the rescue and recovery effort.

Victims Identified

When first responders arrived, David Kornreich was pronounced dead at the crash site.

Andrew R. Harrell was transported to Cayuga Medical Center in critical condition. Authorities later confirmed that Harrell died from his injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities from the crash to two.

The sudden loss of both men has left loved ones facing an unimaginable tragedy as they remember their lives and the impact they had on those around them.

Investigation Into Fatal Crash

The cause of the aircraft crash remains under investigation.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s final flight and the events that led to the crash.

Investigators are reviewing available evidence, including the condition of the aircraft, flight information, and other factors that may help determine what caused the fatal incident.

Officials have not released additional details regarding the suspected mechanical issue or the exact sequence of events before the aircraft went down.

Emergency Response

Several agencies assisted with the response, including the New York State Police, New York State Park Police, Enfield Fire & Rescue, Department of Emergency Response, Ithaca Fire Department, Ithaca Airport Fire Department, and Trumansburg Fire Department.

Guthrie Air was also dispatched, while the Mecklenburg Volunteer Fire Company established a landing zone at a nearby school to support emergency operations.

The coordinated response reflected the efforts of multiple first responders who worked to secure the crash site and assist those involved.

Remembering Those Lost

For the families and friends of David Kornreich and Andrew R. Harrell, this tragedy represents a heartbreaking loss.

Beyond the details of the investigation, both men were individuals with their own lives, relationships, and memories shared with the people who knew and loved them.

As authorities continue working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, loved ones are left to grieve and remember the lives of those lost.

Funeral arrangements, memorial services, and additional family announcements will be shared by loved ones when available.

Pending those announcements, readers are reminded that not all information shared online regarding deaths, accidents, investigations, obituaries, funeral services, or memorial arrangements may be accurate and should be confirmed through official family statements or verified sources.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and may not always be accurate. Details regarding deaths, causes of death, accidents, investigations, funeral services, and memorial arrangements should be confirmed through official authorities, family announcements, or verified sources.

The Enfield community continues to mourn the loss of David Kornreich and Andrew R. Harrell as investigators work to uncover the full story behind the tragic aircraft crash.

May their memories bring comfort to everyone who knew and loved them.