Pilot Dies in Plane Crash at Roseburg’s George Felt Airport

Roseburg, Oregon- A pilot was killed Thursday morning while attempting to land a single-engine aircraft at George Felt Airport, located in the 400 block of Felt Street, Roseburg. The crash occurred at approximately 11:30 a.m. on October 3, 2024.

Witnesses at the private airfield, known as Felt’s Field, reported that the pilot was operating a small yellow fixed-wing plane when the incident took place. After an unsuccessful first attempt to land, during which the pilot ran out of runway, he circled the airfield and attempted a second landing. Witnesses stated the plane bounced off the ground before launching back into the air, where it struck a tree with the propeller. The aircraft then nosedived to the ground.

Emergency services, including deputies, firefighters from Central Douglas Fire and Rescue, and Umpqua Valley Ambulance personnel, responded to the scene. Despite their efforts, the pilot, identified as 65-year-old Steven H. Kretsinger of Eugene, was pronounced dead on-site.

Authorities have confirmed that the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have been notified and will conduct an investigation into the crash. Kretsinger’s next of kin have also been informed.