News Summary
A small aircraft, Socata TBM 700, crashed on I-195 shortly after taking off from New Bedford Regional Airport, resulting in two fatalities and one injury. Witnesses reported a fiery impact, and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene. The victims, Tom and Agatha Perkins, were prominent figures in the local construction community. Investigations into the cause of the crash, which may involve mechanical failure or pilot error, are underway. This event highlights the dangers associated with private aviation and the need for rigorous safety measures.
New Bedford, MA – Two Killed in Fiery Plane Crash on I-195
Two individuals lost their lives, and one person was injured in a fiery airplane crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from New Bedford Regional Airport on October 13, 2025. The incident involved a small aircraft that collided with the highway shortly after lifting off, resulting in a tragic accident with significant damage and flames.
Details of the Incident
The crash happened just after 8 a.m., when the aircraft, identified as a Socata TBM 700, was en route with only two occupants aboard. Witnesses and emergency responders reported seeing the plane come down near the Interstate 195 corridor, where it tragically caught fire upon impact. The fiery nature of the crash was captured in footage from the scene, illustrating the severity of the accident.
Authorities confirmed that Tom Perkins and his wife, Agatha Perkins, were the only individuals on board at the time. The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office verified their identities and reported that both Perkins and his wife were pronounced dead at the scene. A third individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, sustained injuries but was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Victims’ Background
Tom Perkins was a partner in a prominent construction firm based in Middletown, known as Kirby Perkins Construction. The company specializes in historic restoration and preservation projects, and has been recognized for its expertise in restoring buildings of cultural significance. Over the past 30 years, Kirby Perkins Construction has earned multiple awards for its work, cementing its reputation in the industry.
The Perkins family and their enterprise have a longstanding history in the region’s construction and restoration community. Their involvement in community projects and commitment to historic preservation have made them well-regarded figures in local development efforts.
Response and Investigation
Emergency crews promptly responded to the scene, tackling the flames and securing the area. Traffic on I-195 was temporarily halted as investigators examined the crash site, determined the cause, and cleared the wreckage.
Law enforcement and transportation safety officials are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the crash. Initial indications suggest that mechanical failure or pilot error may have contributed, but authorities emphasize that investigations are ongoing and no definitive cause has been determined at this stage.
Background Context
The incident marks one of the more severe aviation accidents in the region involving private aircraft in recent years. While small aircraft are generally considered safe when properly maintained and operated, accidents can still occur due to unforeseen issues. This event underscores the importance of strict safety protocols and maintenance standards for private and commercial flights alike.
New Bedford Regional Airport, where the plane took off, functions as a base for private pilots, flight training, and regional travel. It regularly receives small aircraft like the Socata TBM 700, a model favored for its speed and efficiency in personal and business travel. Incidents involving such aircraft are thoroughly investigated to prevent future tragedies and improve safety measures.
Conclusion
The crash has resulted in the loss of two lives and injury to one individual, highlighting the dangers associated with private aviation. Investigators are continuing their work to uncover the precise causes of this tragic event, and authorities remain committed to ensuring safety standards are upheld to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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- Wikipedia: Plane Crash
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation
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