Local News
3 dead after a small plane crashes into a residential area in Oregon
A tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning when a small plane crashed into a residential area near the Troutdale Airport. The crash resulted in the deaths of three people, including the two occupants of the aircraft.
The twin-engine Cessna 421C, which was carrying two individuals, went down around 10:30 a.m. in the Fairview neighborhood, located approximately 11 miles east of Portland. The plane struck a set of power transmission lines before crashing into a row of townhomes, setting multiple units on fire.
Gresham fire officials have confirmed that at least three people lost their lives in the plane crash that occurred on Saturday morning. While they cannot provide specific details about the identities of the victims, it is believed that the two occupants of the plane and at least one townhome resident perished in the incident.
The Federal Aviation Administration previously reported that there were two individuals on board the aircraft. Gresham Fire Chief Scott Lewis has stated that one townhome resident is currently unaccounted for. In addition to the fatalities, multiple injuries have been reported. Both Chief Lewis and Multnomah County Sheriff’s Deputy John Plock have confirmed the presence of injuries, but the exact number of injured people and the severity of their injuries remain unknown at this time.
The plane crash in Troutdale left a significant debris field, according to Multnomah County Sheriff’s Deputy John Plock. The crash site was divided into two main areas, as some parts of the plane apparently broke off after it struck the power equipment.
The incident occurred near a power transmission line, and footage from the scene shows that multiple wires were knocked off one of the transmission towers. Some of these wires landed in a nearby field, igniting a brush fire. However, the fire was contained and did not spread significantly.
The damage to the power lines resulted in a widespread power outage. Portland General Electric confirmed that approximately 9,000 customers in the Fairview area were affected by the outage. By 3 p.m., PGE reported that power had been restored to all impacted customers.
The high temperatures on the day of the crash made it difficult for firefighters to battle the blaze, and the extensive structural damage to the building limited their ability to work from the inside. As a result, they primarily focused on dousing the flames from outside using a ladder truck.
The cause of the fire is not yet determined, but investigators believe that fuel from the plane may have been a contributing factor.
The fire caused significant damage to the building, displacing at least five families. Fire crews are still assessing the condition of one unit, and there is a possibility that a sixth family may also be displaced.
Volunteers from the Trauma Intervention Program were on-site to assist the displaced residents, and the Red Cross secured temporary housing for all affected families for Saturday night.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the crash, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Two investigators have been dispatched to the scene to document the wreckage and collect evidence. The wreckage will then be transported to a secure facility for further examination.
Anyone with information about the crash, including surveillance footage or other relevant details, is encouraged to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov. The NTSB will not be commenting on the cause of the accident during the on-site investigation. Local authorities will be responsible for releasing information about the victims and their injuries.
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.