We have a corporate statement from Greg Manuel, the Lafayette businessman and philanthropist who died in a plane crash Thursday morning.
“It is with deep sadness that Manuel Companies announces the tragic death of its owner, Greg Manuel, in a plane crash. Greg was a remarkable leader and a valued member of our community.
Greg’s commitment to Manuel Companies went beyond business; he was a pillar of our community, known for his unwavering generosity, his commitment to improving the lives of those around him, and his genuine concern for those whose lives he touched. His contributions will be felt far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on both the professional and personal lives of many.
During this difficult time, Greg’s family requests privacy as they process this difficult loss. They thank the community for their outpouring of support and understanding and ask for patience in the coming days. Further details regarding funeral arrangements and updates will be provided in due course.
We invite everyone to join us in prayer, honor Greg’s legacy and reflect on the positive impact he had.”
Here is the information we have about the crash: The small plane crashed minutes after takeoff from Lafayette Regional Airport on Thursday at around 11:35 a.m. It crashed on the Oakbourne Country Club golf course on East Simcoe Street.
The Lafayette Fire Department, Lafayette Police Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Department and Acadian Ambulance. Officials from the Lafayette Regional Airport were also on scene to assist with the initial investigation.
Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) arrived at the scene to conduct their initial investigation. Representatives from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are expected to arrive at the scene tomorrow, city and town officials say.
This morning, officials told us the plane left the airport at 11:35 a.m. and a 911 call came in two minutes later. The Lafayette Fire Department responded to the Country Club and found one person dead.
“There is currently no further confirmed information about the souls on board,” a press release states.
Representatives from the Lafayette Fire Department, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Acadian Ambulance, Lafayette Airport Commission and Lafayette Consolidated Government are on scene. The investigation will be turned over to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and updates will be provided as new information becomes available, officials say.
The accident occurred near the 3700 block of East Simcoe Street.
