DUNLAP, Tenn. — UPDATE: Plane Crash Victims Identified; 79-Year-Old Wendall Trimble Killed, Another Injured
DUNLAP, Tenn. — A tragic plane crash that unfolded near Dunlap, Tennessee, earlier this week has claimed the life of a respected local resident and left another man injured. During a press conference held Wednesday evening, Dunlap Police Chief Bill Phillips identified the victims involved in the crash as 79-year-old Wendall Trimble, a longtime resident of Dunlap, and 55-year-old Ashish Sircar of Florida.
The single-engine aircraft, which belonged to Mr. Trimble, went down in a rural area just outside the city limits. Emergency responders arrived swiftly on the scene following reports of a downed plane and smoke visible from a nearby highway. Despite their efforts, Trimble was tragically pronounced dead at the site. Sircar, who survived the crash, sustained injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. He is expected to recover.
Longtime Pilot and Community Member
Wendall Trimble was well-known in the Dunlap community—not only as a devoted friend and neighbor but also as an experienced pilot who had been flying for many years. According to preliminary information released by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Trimble was fully licensed and had a long history of safe aviation practices.
“Wendall had been a pilot for decades,” one local resident shared. “He loved flying, and he loved this community. His loss is devastating.”
The NTSB noted that the aircraft involved was equipped with dual flight controls, meaning that either seat in the cockpit had the ability to operate the plane. Due to the condition of the wreckage and ongoing questions surrounding the flight, investigators have not yet confirmed who was piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by both the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Investigators spent much of Wednesday at the crash site collecting evidence, reviewing flight data, and interviewing witnesses. A preliminary report is expected in the coming days, though a full analysis could take several weeks or even months.
“At this time, we cannot confirm who was in control of the aircraft,” said an NTSB spokesperson. “We are examining all aspects of the flight, including weather conditions, mechanical issues, and pilot experience.”
A Town in Mourning
News of Wendall Trimble’s death has deeply impacted the close-knit town of Dunlap, where he was admired for his generous spirit, passion for aviation, and quiet leadership. Friends described him as someone who loved to share his knowledge and frequently volunteered his time mentoring others interested in flying.
The crash has also raised concern and prompted renewed discussions about aviation safety in rural areas, especially among hobby pilots and small aircraft operators.
“Wendall’s passing is a terrible loss,” said Chief Phillips during the press briefing. “Our hearts go out to his family, his friends, and the entire community. We are thankful that Mr. Sircar survived and wish him a full recovery.”
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, the Dunlap community prepares to honor the life of a man who touched so many through his kindness, wisdom, and love for the skies. Funeral arrangements for Wendall Trimble are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
Meanwhile, the NTSB is encouraging anyone with information—particularly those who may have witnessed the flight prior to the crash or have video footage—to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Rest in peace, Wendall Trimble. Your life and legacy will not be forgotten in the skies over Dunlap.