Published: October 10, 2008 08:05 pm         

Wind blamed for aircraft crash near WTH

WEST TERRE HAUTE — Strong wind is being blamed for a Terre Haute man’s aircraft crash early Friday afternoon near West Terre Haute.

William Newton, 56, was listed in good condition Friday evening in Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis after being flown there by Lifeline Helicopter earlier that afternoon.

According to a media release issued by Indiana State Police, Newton was flying a two-cylinder, 50-horsepower gas engine 2007 Experimental Sport Lite Aircraft when he tried a northbound landing.

A “strong gust of air” forced the aircraft into a wooded area and his efforts to land were unsuccessful, the report stated.

After the crash, Newton managed to use his cell phone to call his daughter at work, who in turn dialed 911 and drove with her mother from downtown Terre Haute.

According to the release, environmental conditions were sunny and clear with occasional wind gusts.

State troopers and Sugar Creek Township firefighters were dispatched at 1:30 p.m. to 2175 Gannon Road, in response.

Newton was found down a 20- to 25-feet deep ravine about 150 yards northwest of his intended private grass landing strip.

The aircraft was on its side with Newton still in his safety harness and helmet, conscious and talking with rescuers.

Firefighters and TransCare Ambulance personnel stabilized the victim and used a rescue basket and ropes to extricate the pilot from the ravine.

Lifeline Helicopter landed at the scene and flew the victim to Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis for treatment of what were reported to be “non-life threatening” head and chest injuries.