Cessna Pilot Dies in Illinois Residential Crash, Called Hero

A Cessna T210 crashed into a residential area in unincorporated Deerfield, Illinois, around 9:45 p.m. March 4, killing the sole occupant. The 75-year-old pilot, Chester Wojnicki of Mount Prospect, was en route to Chicago Executive Airport when the aircraft struck townhome roofs and gas meters. Witnesses reported the plane hit treetops before coming straight down, though no ground injuries occurred in the area of approximately 900 residents.

Wojnicki's final air traffic control communication included a tower call to check altitude, to which he responded, "Climbing back," according to ABC7. First responders from the Lake County Sheriff's Office found the cockpit destroyed and the pilot dead from blunt force trauma. Although the aircraft caused a small gas leak controlled by Nicor Gas, witnesses credited Wojnicki with steering away from connected homes, calling him a "true hero" for his actions before impact.

The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation, assisted by the Federal Aviation Administration. Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli of the Lake County Sheriff's Office said investigators will examine the aircraft for mechanical issues or medical factors, noting "nothing's been ruled in and nothing has been ruled out." Friends described Wojnicki as an experienced pilot who had served with the Civil Air Patrol.