State Highway Patrol identify 2 people injured in small plane crash near Knightdale

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol has identified the two people injured in a small plane crash on Wednesday near Knightdale.

The crash happened around 2:30 p.m. along Three Sisters Road near Raleigh East Airport in Knightdale. 

According to the State Highway Patrol, the plane was traveling southwest near the end of Three Sisters Road when it hit several enclosed storage trailers. Troopers said the airplane continued southwest, where it crashed into several trees before crashing into a ravine.

Knightdale Fire Department Battalion Chief William Boggs said two people were conscious and alert before authorities took them to WakeMed for treatment.

Troopers later identified those two as Luis Quijano, the pilot, and John Wellman, the passenger. Both are expected to be OK.

“They were able to talk with us, but they did not say what ... happened,” Boggs said. “We were too worried at that point, treating their injuries and getting them to the hospital.”

Boggs said the cause of the crash is under investigation.

Boggs said the State Highway Patrol will lead the investigation along with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board. He said the plane had heavy damage to the wings and cockpit.

Sky 5 flew over the scene after 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, as first responders worked to help someone involved in the crash.

Boggs said there is no threat to the community.