Wisconsin GOP Candidate Survives Plane Crash

A Republican gubernatorial candidate in Wisconsin, Tom Tiffany, experienced a harrowing emergency when the plane he was in lost power and plunged into a lake. The incident happened during the final approach to Wausau Downtown Airport.

Emergency Response

Rescue teams raced to the scene after the aircraft disappeared into the water. Dispatch audio captured moments as responders requested additional ambulances, engines, and boats. Rescuers used GPS data from a mobile phone believed to be underwater to locate the crash site.

“We’re going to be in search for a down plane,” a responder announced.

Quick Reaction by the Pilot

Pilot Leonard “Len” Boltz had only seconds to react when the plane’s power failed. Tiffany recounted Boltz’s instructions at a news conference, advising him to tighten his seatbelt. The crash impact caused injuries to both men. Tiffany required 12 stitches for a head injury, and Boltz needed four stitches.

After reaching the water, the two men managed to escape from the aircraft. Tiffany attempted to retrieve his phone from the cockpit but failed. Boltz successfully called for emergency assistance using his phone.

Survival and Rescue

The aircraft slowly submerged, prompting Tiffany and Boltz to climb onto it before it sank completely. They swam towards the airport as lights appeared around the lake, eventually finding a shallow spot to wait for help.

A responder reported that first responders arrived, securing both men from the water. Both were found “alert and conscious,” confirming that everyone aboard was safe.

Praise for the Pilot

Tiffany credited Boltz with preventing a potentially fatal incident. Boltz, an experienced pilot, managed to raise the plane’s landing gear before hitting the water, which helped avoid a catastrophic landing.

Wausau Mayor Doug Diny commended Boltz for his skillful handling of the situation, emphasizing the challenges of a water landing at night.

Investigation and Aftermath

Following their treatment at Aspirus Wausau Hospital, both Tiffany and Boltz were discharged. No signs of a concussion were found in Tiffany, but medical guidance cautioned against flying for a few days.

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the cause of the engine failure. Despite the ordeal, Tiffany intends to continue his campaign for governor against Democratic opponent David Crowley. He expressed determination and gratitude for surviving the accident.

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed relief for Tiffany’s safety through social media, while Crowley also praised the actions of the pilot in this incident.