In a dramatic turn of events, Republican congressman Tom Tiffany from Wisconsin found himself swimming to safety after the small aircraft he was traveling in made an emergency landing in Lake Wausau on Saturday evening. The incident, which occurred as the plane approached Wausau Downtown Airport has sparked investigations by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board.
The aircraft, a single-engine plane piloted by Leonard Boltz lost power during its final approach. Boltz managed to land the plane in the lake, where Tiffany and he exited the submerging aircraft and swam to a shallow area. They waited there until emergency responders arrived by boat. The entire ordeal lasted approximately 20 minutes, with the initial 911 call placed at 8:49 p.m. and the rescue completed by 9:05 p.m.
The Emergency Landing and Rescue Operation
According to Marathon County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Cory Gladden the 911 call was made by one of the plane’s occupants while they were still on top of the sinking aircraft. Tiffany later shared on social media that he received 12 stitches above his right eye and was subsequently released from Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Boltz also sustained minor injuries but was treated and released.
Tiffany, who is Wisconsin’s Republican gubernatorial nominee, was returning home from the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner in Onalaska when the incident occurred. He credited Boltz for pulling up the landing gear before hitting the water, which he believes may have saved their lives. The plane was traveling at an estimated 70 miles per hour at the time of the crash.
Investigations and Reactions
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are currently investigating the incident. Initial information suggests that the plane experienced a mechanical failure. The aircraft remains in Lake Wausau, and officials have asked boaters to avoid the area until the plane can be removed.
David Crowley the Democratic candidate for governor, expressed relief that no one was seriously injured, calling the incident ‘horrifying.’ Meanwhile, John Chmiel manager of the Wausau Downtown Airport, praised Boltz for his handling of the emergency. Chmiel noted that such incidents are incredibly uncommon and highlighted the pilot’s skill in executing a difficult maneuver safely.
The Aftermath and Future Steps
Despite the harrowing experience, Tiffany has stated that the incident will not deter him from continuing his campaign for governor. He plans to return to the campaign trail, emphasizing his commitment to the race. Tiffany’s emotional reflection on the event underscored his gratitude for the quick response of the Wausau Fire Department and other emergency responders.
The investigation into the loss of power on the Beechcraft K35 aircraft is ongoing. As the details continue to unfold, the focus remains on the safety measures and protocols that ensured the survival of both Tiffany and Boltz. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the critical role of pilot training and emergency preparedness.
