Small plane crashes near airport in Renton, WA

A small plane skidded off the runway at Renton Municipal Airport and crashed into Lake Washington on June 1, 2025. The pilot and passenger escaped without injury, according to Renton Police Public Information Officer Meeghan Black. The aircraft, a Cessna, was involved in a training flight where the pilot practiced emergency landings before the incident occurred. Local environmental agencies, including the EPA, are investigating the scene for potential toxic material leakage. Witness Naaman "Shep" Shepard remarked on the unusual nature of the crash for the area, highlighting the rarity of such incidents.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been notified and will follow up with their investigations. The incident raises concerns about aviation safety and the protocols during training flights. Investigators will assess both the circumstances leading to the crash and the environmental impact on Lake Washington.