Leiper's Fork, Tenn. - In a devastating incident, a small aircraft crashed near Bending Chestnut Road and Davis Hollow Road, resulting in the loss of three lives. The Williamson County Sheriff's Office confirmed the fatalities and urged the public to avoid the area to facilitate the ongoing investigation.

According to Flight Aware, the plane was en route from Gonzales, Louisiana to Louisville. Air Traffic Control audio indicated that the aircraft had started to descend from 9,000 feet and discussed potential landing options 16 miles north. However, its last communication revealed that the plane was heading back south.

Tragically, the plane broke apart in mid-air, causing debris to scatter over a half-mile radius. Efforts are underway to recover the wreckage and locate missing pieces. Emergency officials received a 911 call from a local resident who reported a possible explosion and debris sighting, prompting an immediate response from the Williamson County Sheriff's Office, Franklin Fire, Williamson County Emergency Management Agency, and Williamson Health EMS.

Sheriff Mark Elrod confirmed that there have been reports of debris discovered in yards and driveways, although no structural damage has been reported thus far. Authorities are urging residents who find debris on their property to contact the Williamson County Sheriff's Office at 615-790-5550.

To aid media coverage, a staging area has been established at the intersection of Bending Chestnut Road and Natchez Trace Parkway. Another media briefing is scheduled for 5 p.m. to provide additional updates and details regarding the ongoing investigation.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will be arriving in Williamson County on Wednesday evening and will continue their investigation into Thursday morning. The NTSB's expertise will be crucial in determining the cause of this tragic accident.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities remain focused on identifying the victims and notifying their next of kin. The loss of life in this incident is a deeply saddening event, and the thoughts and condolences of the community go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragedy.

The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the crash, providing answers to the lingering questions about what led to the aircraft's untimely demise.