The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released new details about the fatal plane crash that killed legendary songwriter Brett James and two of his family members in September.
According to WFAA, the preliminary report reveals that the plane “appeared to spiral” as it descended toward its destination of Macon County Airport in Franklin, N.C.
The plane — piloted by James — began to approach the runway at 2:48 PM local time on Sept. 18.
In his final transmission to air traffic control, James said he was flying at 6,800 feet and intended to make a full 360-degree turn before landing the aircraft.
Witnesses who saw the plane in its final moments before crashing say that its wings were “rocking side-to-side” as it flew unusually low over the playground of Iotla Valley Elementary School.
The crash took place in a field near the school, about half a mile away from the runway where James intended to land.
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Tracking data shows that the plane began to descend in a left turn. In the report, investigators describe its path as a “tightening spiral.” From the ground, witnesses saw it rolling into an upside down position before disappearing behind trees as it crashed.
According to NTSB’s report, the plane was found upright in the field where it crashed, and no signs of engine failure were discovered.
How Did Brett James Die?
- The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame confirmed James’ death with a post to social media.
- He was 57 years old.
- NTSB’s new report is consistent with earlier information that no one on the ground was harmed in the incident.
James’ wife Melody Carole and her 28-year-old daughter Meryl Maxwell Wilson were the other two victims in the crash. He and Carole married in August 2021, and Meryl had recently celebrated her birthday at the time of the tragedy.
Who Was Brett James?
One of Nashville’s most-acclaimed country music songwriters, James co-wrote nearly a dozen songs for Carrie Underwood‘s projects. Among those were “Church Bells,” “Cowboy Casanova,” “The Champion” and “Jesus Take the Wheel.”
He also wrote hits for a slew of other artists, including Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley, Rascal Flatts and Martina McBride.
Read More: 13 Brett James Songs You’ve Known + Loved For Years
Many country stars issued tributes in the wake of James’ death.
Jason Aldean said he was “heartbroken” by the loss in a social media post, where he also shared a performance clip of his hit “The Truth,” which James co-wrote.
In her remembrance, Carrie Underwood recalled some memories of working with James, and said her favorite songs to sing with him were the ones about Jesus, because “the thoughts and feelings behind them are so genuine and pure.”
Kenny Chesney admitted that “a part of my creative soul” went with James when he died, recounting a musical partnership and friendship that dated back to Chesney’s earliest days in Nashville.
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Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes
