Beechcraft Bonanza Crash Kills Two After Takeoff in Minnesota

Fatal Crash Near Crystal Airport

A Beechcraft F33A Bonanza with registration N8032X crashed shortly after takeoff April 25, 2026, from Crystal Airport (KMIC) in Crystal, Minnesota. The accident killed the pilot and North Dakota state legislator Liz Con. According to reports compiled by the Blancolirio aviation channel, the aircraft had filed a flight plan for a 132-nautical-mile trip to Park Rapids Municipal Airport (KPKD) and departed at 11:51 a.m. local time under clear weather conditions.

Investigation Underway

ADS-B data shows the aircraft reached 71 knots before descending into a park area less than 0.25 miles from the airport boundary. Air traffic control recordings captured a garbled transmission from the pilot shortly after takeoff, prompting controllers to clear other traffic from the area. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating potential causes including engine failure or door issues, with wreckage analysis expected to provide insights.

Pattern of Recent Incidents

This crash is part of a cluster of general aviation fatalities reported in late April 2026. The Blancolirio YouTube channel noted a pattern of takeoff and approach issues in single-engine piston aircraft, citing at least four other recent fatalities during the same period. Aviation Safety Network confirms the basic facts regarding the date, location and aircraft type.