Local News
Victims killed in Mesa plane crash identified
A tragic plane crash in Mesa, Arizona, on Tuesday evening claimed the lives of five people, including a 12-year-old boy, as a private plane bound for Provo, Utah, crashed shortly after takeoff from Falcon Field Airport.
The group had been traveling to attend a Brigham Young University basketball game in Provo.
Video captured at the crash site shows the plane engulfed in flames on a nearby road after veering off the runway.
Investigators report that the aircraft, carrying five people, lost control moments after takeoff.
Tragically, the plane collided with a vehicle, killing the driver instantly, along with four passengers aboard the aircraft.
An 18-year-old male on the plane survived the crash and is currently hospitalized in stable condition.
On Wednesday, Mesa Police released the identities of the four passengers who perished on the plane:
- Spencer Lindahl, 43
- Rustin Randall, 48
- Drew Kimball, 44
- Graham Kimball, 12
The name of the individual killed in the car has not yet been disclosed. The plane was owned by Spencer Lindahl, who was originally from Utah, as confirmed by his family.
Lindahl’s son, who also survived the crash, is now in stable condition. Lindahl leaves behind his wife and four children, and his family is mourning what they describe as a devastating loss of a loving husband and dedicated father.
Lindahl, who co-owned a successful property management business in Arizona, was known for his strong family values and commitment to his community.
His family shared that Lindahl’s 20-year-old daughter, who had just returned from an 18-month mission trip to Brazil for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, arrived back in Arizona on Wednesday morning, missing the chance to reunite with her father by less than a day.
Lindahl’s business partner, Rustin Randall, who was also killed in the crash, leaves behind his wife and four children.
The Lindahl and Randall families, as well as the Kimball family, are in deep mourning and have asked for privacy and support during this difficult time.
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.