March 7, 2026 — Gulf Shores, Alabama Two occupants from Gulf Shores were killed in the Gulf Shores, Alabama small plane crash: Two killed in Beechcraft Bonanza crash into Bon Secour Bay[1][2][3] when a single-engine Beechcraft A36 Bonanza, registration N66519, impacted Bon Secour Bay approximately seven miles west of Gulf Shores International Airport (KJKA) around 6:44-7:00 p.m. local time during approach to runway 9 amid low visibility and overcast conditions.
The aircraft, a 1982-built fixed-wing single-engine plane owned by an individual and en route from Palm Coast-Flagler County Airport (KFIN) in Florida,[^1] lost radar contact in weather featuring visibility as low as 2.5 statute miles with mist and overcast ceilings at 200-500 feet above ground level.[1]
Emergency Response
Gulf Shores Police Marine Unit responded immediately to the last known radar location, discovering a debris field near Sailboat Bay and Plash Island.[3] Multi-agency efforts involving U.S. Coast Guard helicopters, drones and boats, Gulf Shores Fire Rescue, Orange Beach Police, Oyster Bay Fire Department, Daphne Search and Rescue, and AMR recovered the wreckage and bodies of the two victims, both turned over to the coroner.[2][3]
An extensive search confirmed no additional passengers aboard.[2]
“An additional search was conducted for more passengers, living or deceased, and no others were located.”
— Gulf Shores Police Chief Dan Netemeyer[2]
Public was advised not to disturb debris and to report any findings to Gulf Shores Police at 251-968-2431.[3]
Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the probe into the Gulf Shores, Alabama small plane crash: Two killed in Beechcraft Bonanza crash into Bon Secour Bay,[1][3] with Gulf Shores Police assisting. No preliminary findings have been released as of March 12, 2026. Victim identities remain withheld pending family notification.[2]
“Their families are in our thoughts and prayers. It’s traumatic and we’re going to help them out anyway we can.”
— Gulf Shores Police Chief Dan Netemeyer[2]
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragic event. We extend our deepest condolences during this difficult time.”[3]
Flight tracking data is available via FlightAware and Flightradar24.[1]
[^1]: FAA Registry
