AFTON, MINN. – Federal officials recently disclosed a preliminary report on the tragic crash of a World War II-era airplane earlier this month in Afton, which resulted in the deaths of the pilot, William “Pat” Moore, 85, of White Bear Lake, and his passenger, Mitchell J. Zahler, 68, of Baytown Township. The duo took off from Lake Elmo Airport and were on their way to the Fagen Fighters WWII Museum in Granite Falls, Minn. The fatal incident occurred around 9:40 a.m. on March 2 in a residential area about six nautical miles south-southeast of the airport, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.

According to the report, eyewitnesses stated that the plane went into a rapid nosedive, followed by a loud crash and subsequent explosion upon impact. The wreckage was found near a home’s attached garage, with fuel stains observed on the driveway. The cockpit was found to be heavily damaged by fire, and parts of the aircraft were completely consumed by the flames. Investigators noted significant damage to the wings, blades, and engine components.

Prior to the flight, Moore purchased 9.1 gallons of fuel and took off at 9:36 a.m., when the temperature was recorded at 44 degrees. The NTSB has taken custody of the wreckage for further examination, with a final report expected to be released at a later date. Moore had owned the aircraft since 1961, as per his obituary.

An upcoming celebration of Zahler’s life is scheduled for April 5 at Rockpoint Church in Lake Elmo, with visitation starting two hours prior to the service. Moore’s services have already been conducted. Further details regarding the ongoing investigation and any subsequent findings will be disclosed in the final report issued by the NTSB.