[UPDATE] Plane crash near Sylacauga Municipal Airport under investigation

SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Authorities are investigating a small plane crash that occurred Wednesday, July 16 near the Sylacauga Municipal Airport just after 1:45 p.m., when a small craft went down in a wooded area just west of the Sylacauga Airport.

Emergency responders from the Sylacauga Fire and Police Departments arrived at the scene shortly after the crash and others followed.

Officials confirmed that only the pilot was on board the aircraft at the time. He was reported to have experienced engine trouble and crashed just short of a safe emergency landing at the Sylacauga airport.

The pilot was alert and talking at the scene of the crash, before being airlifted to UAB Hospital for treatment.

The crash investigation will continue, conducted by National Transportation Safety Board officials. More updates will be provided as information becomes available.