WARREN COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Two men died after a small aircraft crashed in a corn field near the Morrison Industrial Park in Warren County on June 17, 2026.
Warren County E-911 received a report of a possible aircraft crash at approximately 12:19 p.m. Deputies with the Warren County Sheriff's Office, along with members of the Warren County Volunteer Fire Department and other emergency responders, responded to the area and located the downed aircraft.
Both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
The victims have now been identified as brothers Brian Stewart Ramsey, 69, and Keith Warren Ramsey, 65, both of the Viola community.
The sheriff's office previously said family members had confirmed the two people aboard the aircraft were brothers and longtime members of the local aviation community.
"This is a heartbreaking loss for their family, friends, and the entire Viola community, as well as all of the local pilots who knew the brothers personally," the sheriff's office said in a statement.
The preliminary investigation indicates the aircraft departed from a private airstrip in the Viola community. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft appears to have struck a tree, causing damage. The pilot then attempted to reach the Warren County Memorial Airport, but the aircraft was unable to do so and ultimately crashed.
An NTSB investigator arrived at the scene Thursday to document the crash site and examine the aircraft. The airplane will then be transported to a secure facility for further evaluation.
Investigators confirmed that a portion of the aircraft separated during the flight, but the aircraft continued flying before ultimately crashing. Additional information is still being collected and remains subject to change.
As part of the investigation, the NTSB will review air traffic control communications, radar data, weather conditions, witness statements, surveillance video, aircraft maintenance records and the pilot's flight history. Investigators may also examine electronic devices that could contain information relevant to the crash.
The agency is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has surveillance video or other information that could assist investigators to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov.
The NTSB emphasized that it does not determine or speculate on the cause of an accident during the on-scene phase of an investigation. The current stage focuses on gathering facts and evidence.
A preliminary report is expected within 30 days. A final report, including the probable cause of the crash and any contributing factors, is expected within 12 to 24 months.
The Warren County Sheriff's Office asks everyone to keep the family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Kelsey Gibbs brings us a powerful story of humanity, compassion, and love in action while showing us the hard and lifesaving work our officers do daily. Nashville is lucky to have people like Lt. Hotz wearing the badge.
- Carrie Sharp
