Local News
4 dead after plane crash near the Basin Harbor Airport in Ferrisburgh
Four people were tragically killed in a small plane crash in Ferrisburgh, Vermont. Vermont State Police discovered the wreckage of a privately owned, four-seat, single-engine Piper aircraft in a wooded area near the Basin Harbor Airport early Monday morning.
The bodies of the victims were recovered and transported to the medical examiner’s office in Burlington. Their identities have not yet been released.
Investigators have determined that the occupants of the plane had traveled from Connecticut to Ferrisburgh on Sunday morning for brunch at Basin Harbor. They departed the restaurant around noon with the intention of returning to Connecticut.
The plane was last seen on the runway at Basin Harbor Airport at approximately 12:15 PM on Sunday. However, it never arrived back in Connecticut as expected. There were no reported incidents of aircraft distress or a plane crash in the area.
Connecticut authorities, working in conjunction with the FAA, utilized cellphone location data to pinpoint the plane’s last known position near the airstrip in Vermont. Vermont State Police were notified of the situation by their Connecticut counterparts around 10:20 PM on Sunday.
Search and rescue crews in Vermont employed a drone to locate the plane wreckage, which was discovered in a wooded area east of the airport at approximately 12:20 AM on Monday. First responders confirmed that all four individuals on board had perished.
The identities of the victims are being withheld pending further investigation and notification of their families.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.