UPDATE: APRIL 17; 10:27 AM
Two men remain in critical condition following a devastating plane crash on April 13 that has become a story of heroism and community support.
Flight instructor Cole Hohne and his student Malcolm Patchett, who is active duty Navy, were both severely injured when their training aircraft became engulfed in flames during what was supposed to be a routine flight. Despite suffering life-threatening burns over 75% of his body, Hohne managed to pull Patchett—a husband and father of two—from the burning wreckage and used his bare hands to extinguish flames on him.
Both men were airlifted to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, which houses one of the world's premier burn treatment facilities. Hohne's recovery is being described by medical staff as proceeding "hour by hour," with an anticipated six-month treatment and rehabilitation process ahead. Patchett remains in the ICU, where his family maintains a vigil.
"This has been an incredibly difficult time for our family, and we are doing everything we can to support his recovery and stay strong for him," said Patchett's wife in a statement. The active-duty serviceman's family is now facing mounting medical expenses while focusing on his healing process.
Hohne's family is similarly dealing with the financial burden of extended housing needs in San Antonio during his lengthy recovery period, along with mounting medical costs.
The heroic actions of the flight instructor, combined with the rapid response of Corpus Christi EMTs and assistance from Good Samaritans at the crash scene, proved crucial in saving both lives. Brooke Army Medical Center's specialized burn unit continues to provide around-the-clock care for both patients.
Both families have established GoFundMe pages to help cover medical expenses and support their loved ones' recoveries. The community response has been overwhelming, with supporters offering both financial assistance and prayers.
"Every donation, no matter the size, helps us focus on what matters most—his recovery and well-being," Patchett's family stated. "Even if you can't give, prayers are powerful, and we feel your love."
GoFundMe Pages:
Flight Instructor, Cole Hohne: Fundraiser by Bryan Hohne : Cole’s Plane Crash Recovery
Student pilot (Active Navy), Malcolm Patchett: Fundraiser by Rachae Patchett : Support Malcolm Patchett’s Recovery
UPDATE: APRIL 14 - 7:40 AM
Two people are in critical condition after a training aircraft struck power lines while approaching Corpus Christi International Airport on Monday evening, according to updated information from Splendid Aviation.
The single-engine aircraft came into contact with power lines during approach procedures and crashed along westbound Highway 44 near Clarkwood Road just before 7:30 p.m.
Both occupants — an instructor and student pilot — were initially transported to local hospitals with critical injuries.
They were later transported to San Antonio for specialized medical care, according to Splendid Aviation.
The crash forced authorities to shut down part of the westbound Highway 44 near the airport on Monday evening.
The flight training organization confirmed that it is fully cooperating with both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as investigators work to determine the cause of the incident. Officials declined to speculate on what led to the crash out of respect for the ongoing investigation process.
Splendid Aviation stated they will provide additional information as it becomes available.
UPDATE: APRIL 13 - 8:55 PM
Two people are reported to be critically injured as a result of the plane crash.
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ORIGINAL: APRIL 13
A crash landing has forced part of Highway 44 to shut down near the Corpus Christi International Airport.
The plane crashed along westbound Highway 44 near Clarkwood Road just before 7:30 p.m.
According to Senior Officer Tony Contreras with the Corpus Christi Police Department's Public Information Office, a small single-engine plane crashed.
It's not known how many people were on the plane or their conditions.
Drivers are being asked to avoid the area if possible and find an alternate route.
This is a developing story. We'll have more updates as soon as information becomes available.
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