Small plane crashes in Wilson

The pilot, John Massey, 79, of Clayton, told authorities he was on a recreational flight over the reservoir when the sun temporarily blinded him. By the time Massey recovered, the plane was too close to the water to pull up, so he landed in the reservoir.

Witnesses who were at the boat dock helped Massey get out of the plane.

Massey was evaluated by Wilson County EMS, but declined medical transport.

The Buckhorn Reservoir is located off N.C. Highway 581 on State Road 1142.

Crews removed the Remos G3, single engine, two-seat plane from the water around 10:45 p.m.

The National Transportation Safety Board has been contacted and the investigation will be handled locally by the police department. NTSB officials will serve as consultants.