HINCKLEY, IL — Tragedy Strikes as Small Plane Crash Claims Life of Local Pilot, Injures Young Child
HINCKLEY, Ill. — The community of Maple Park and surrounding areas are grieving following a heartbreaking aviation accident that claimed the life of 51-year-old James Beyer, a beloved local pilot and resident, on Saturday afternoon, June 7, 2025. The crash occurred near Hinckley Airfield in DeKalb County and also resulted in serious injuries to a 3-year-old child who was a passenger aboard the small aircraft.
Authorities from the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded to the scene around 2:45 p.m., after multiple 911 calls reported a downed plane near the private airfield, just west of Hinckley. First responders arrived quickly and discovered a single-engine aircraft heavily damaged from an apparent crash shortly after takeoff or attempted landing.
James Beyer was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that the toddler, who is related to Beyer, miraculously survived the crash but sustained serious injuries. The child was airlifted to a nearby trauma center where they are receiving treatment. As of the latest update, the child remains in stable condition, though the full extent of their injuries has not been disclosed out of respect for the family’s privacy.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FAA have both launched investigations into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have encountered mechanical difficulties or pilot distress, but no definitive conclusions have been drawn.
James Beyer was well-known in his community—not just as an experienced pilot, but as a devoted family man, mentor, and active member of local aviation clubs. Friends and neighbors describe him as “kind-hearted,” “skilled,” and “deeply committed to both his family and his passion for flying.” His tragic passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew him.
Maple Park resident Tina Holloway, a neighbor of Beyer for over a decade, expressed the community’s shared grief:
“Jim was a wonderful man. He loved that child with all his heart. It’s devastating to think of what happened, but we are praying hard for the little one’s recovery.”
Grief counselors and support services have been made available to both the family and members of the close-knit flying community who frequented the Hinckley Airfield.
The investigation will continue over the coming weeks as officials work to determine exactly what caused the crash. The NTSB is expected to release a preliminary report within 10 days, with a full report to follow after further analysis of the wreckage, weather conditions, and maintenance records.
As the community of Hinckley and Maple Park gathers to mourn, many are already rallying around the family to offer support during this time of profound loss. A GoFundMe page has reportedly been established to assist with funeral costs and the child’s medical care, although details have not yet been publicly confirmed.
James Beyer is survived by his family, including the injured child, and leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and passion for aviation that will long be remembered.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information relevant to the investigation is urged to contact the NTSB or DeKalb County authorities.