Three Killed in Small Aircraft Crash Near Iotla Valley Elementary School in Franklin, NC

Three Killed in Small Aircraft Crash Near Iotla Valley Elementary School in Franklin, NC

FRANKLIN, N.C. — September 18, 2025 — Authorities confirmed that three people were killed Thursday afternoon after a small aircraft crashed near Iotla Valley Elementary School in Macon County.

The crash occurred along Iotla Church Road, just steps from the Macon County Airport, triggering an immediate response from local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical teams. Roads in the area remain closed as the investigation continues.

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office quickly reassured parents that all children and staff at the elementary school were unharmed. “Parents can be assured that children at Iotla Valley Elementary are safe following an airplane accident on the neighboring property,” the department stated in an official release.

Officials emphasized that while the school’s close proximity to the airport raised initial concerns, the aircraft went down on an adjacent property and did not impact the school grounds.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol confirmed it is leading the local investigation, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) notified and monitoring the case. Details about the type of aircraft, flight path, and cause of the accident have not yet been released.

Authorities have also withheld the names of the victims pending notification of their families.

Emergency crews remain at the scene, and investigators expect to work overnight to secure the crash site. Updates are anticipated as federal and state agencies provide further findings.