In Loving Memory of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp

The skydiving community and countless loved ones across the country are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp, who were among the 12 people killed in a tragic aircraft crash near Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

The devastating accident claimed the lives of all 12 individuals aboard the aircraft, including 11 skydivers and the pilot, making it one of the deadliest aviation tragedies to impact the skydiving community in recent memory. As families grapple with unimaginable grief, communities near and far are coming together to remember those who lost their lives while pursuing a passion that brought them joy, purpose, and adventure.

According to Bates County Emergency Management, the aircraft involved was a PAC 750XL, a New Zealand-built turboprop aircraft commonly used for skydiving operations. The plane departed Butler Memorial Airport shortly before 11 a.m. as part of a scheduled flight operated by Skydive Kansas City.

Investigators reported that shortly after takeoff, the pilot turned the aircraft around for reasons that remain unknown. Moments later, tragedy struck when the aircraft crashed near Business 49 Highway in Butler, approximately 70 miles south of Kansas City.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that all 12 occupants aboard the plane lost their lives.

As authorities continue the difficult process of formally identifying victims and notifying next of kin, Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp have been widely reported among those killed in the crash. Officials have emphasized that a complete and official list of victims will be released only after all families have been properly notified.

The loss has sent shockwaves throughout the skydiving community, where friendships often run deep and participants share a unique bond forged through trust, courage, and a love of flight. Those who knew the victims describe a community united by passion, adventure, and mutual support—a community now left grieving an unimaginable loss.

Preliminary reports indicate that Jen Sharp may have been participating in a coach evaluation jump at the time of the flight, though authorities have not officially confirmed individual passenger roles as the investigation continues. Investigators are currently reviewing flight records, operational procedures, maintenance information, and other evidence to determine what led to the fatal crash.

For the families of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, and Jen Sharp, the tragedy represents a loss that words can scarcely describe. Their loved ones are left not only with profound grief but also with cherished memories of lives that touched so many others. While the circumstances surrounding their deaths have drawn national attention, those closest to them will remember their kindness, their friendships, their passions, and the countless moments that made them special.

In the wake of the tragedy, tributes and messages of condolence have poured in from fellow skydivers, friends, family members, and community members. Many have shared stories of encouragement, mentorship, friendship, and unforgettable experiences that highlighted the impact these individuals had on the lives around them.

Aviation accidents leave behind difficult questions, and investigators will continue their efforts to determine exactly what occurred during the flight. Yet for those mourning today, the focus remains on honoring the memories of the lives that were lost.

As the investigation progresses, the nation joins family members and friends in mourning all 12 victims of this devastating crash. The loss of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, Jen Sharp, and the others aboard the aircraft has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of many.

May their families find comfort in the support of loved ones, strength in the memories they shared, and peace in knowing that those lost will never be forgotten.

In loving memory of Matthew Swope, Nick Nash, Dustin McKinney, Jen Sharp, and all those whose lives were tragically taken in the Butler Memorial Airport plane crash. Their memories will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.