Two Hudson Valley Men Injured in Plane Crash, One in Serious Condition

Two Hudson Valley men were injured, one is fighting for his life, when their single-engine plane crashed on the streets of Long Island. Officials are describing the crash as a "miracle."

The plane, a Piper PA 28-140, crashed near the Bayport Aerodome around 7 p.m., Sunday evening. The plane clipped trees and power lines before crashing to the pavement on Second Street in Bayport.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation but officials believe the plane was returning to the airport due to engine trouble.

According to the New York Times, 35-year-old Scott Clifford, the pilot, and passenger, Michael Rome, 65, both of Orange County, were airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital.

CBS New York is reporting that Clifford is listed in serious condition with two broken legs, a broken hand, broken ribs, and a head injury. Rome received 30 stitches to his head. Police say his injuries are not life-threatening.

“This is nothing short of a miracle, both that the airplane did not hit any houses or any other individuals,” Suffolk County Police Commissioner Tim Sini said. “The fact that right now, both occupants of the plane are alive is also nothing short of a miracle.”

The FAA is investigating the cause of the crash.