1 dead in St. Lucie County plane crash

Sheriff says witnesses saw small plane fall nose first

ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. – One person is dead after a small plane crash in St. Lucie County.

The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office said the crash occurred Wednesday at St. Lucie Village.

Sheriff Ken Mascara took a picture of the crash scene.

"Witnesses say it was in distress over the Indian River, attempted to turn and probably make its way back to the Fort Pierce International Airport," Mascara told WPTV. "However, witnesses report it fell from the sky nose first and crashed."

Mascara said the plane exploded upon impact.

The body of the pilot was recovered about 200 yards west of the crash site.

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