Heartbreaking details have emerged about the family members who perished in a tragic plane crash in San Bernardino County late last month. The single-engine Beechcraft P35 crashed during its departure from Cable Airport in Upland on the morning of July 30, taking the lives of all three people onboard.
Among those who died in the crash were Craig Hitchins, Blake Epperson, and Jeff Hitchins, who was piloting the aircraft. The loss has left their family in a state of shock and profound grief. The victims were remembered fondly by their family members, especially Blake Epperson, who was visiting from Maine for a family birthday party and a camping trip.
According to his brother, Trever Epperson, Blake was a dedicated father, brother, and friend. On that fateful Sunday morning, they had planned a one-hour flight before breakfast for fun. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft dramatically climbed before plunging into the front of a hangar.
The family’s focus now is on Blake’s family, particularly his three children. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to provide financial support for the children.
This heart-wrenching incident is a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation. It also highlights the need for thorough investigations into such accidents to provide answers for the grieving families and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.