Karl Kemp, 72, of Neosho, and Larry Howard, 42, of Granby, have been identified as the two people killed when their experimental Zenith CH-701 aircraft crashed near the Camp Crowder area of Neosho, Missouri, on Monday, according to the Newton County Coroner. Kemp was piloting the plane; Howard was his passenger. The NTSB is investigating.
Authorities have released the names of the two men killed in a plane crash near Neosho, Missouri, as investigators continue working to determine what caused the aircraft to go down.
The Victims
The Newton County Coroner identified the victims as Karl Kemp, 72, of Neosho, and Larry Howard, 42, of Granby. According to the coroner, Kemp was piloting the aircraft — a Zenith CH-701, an experimental light aircraft — when it crashed. Howard was aboard as his passenger.
What Happened
The crash occurred Monday near the Camp Crowder area of Neosho, a community located about 20 miles southeast of downtown Joplin. Emergency crews responded to the scene following the crash.
Both Kemp and Howard were killed. No additional details about the moments leading up to the crash — including the aircraft’s altitude, flight path, or any mechanical issues — have been publicly released.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the crash. Investigators have not yet released information about what caused the aircraft to go down or whether mechanical failure, weather, or other factors contributed to the crash.
Because the Zenith CH-701 is classified as an experimental aircraft, investigators will likely examine the plane’s construction and maintenance history as part of the broader investigation.
Additional details are expected as the NTSB continues examining the wreckage and the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
