Pilot killed in single-engine plane crash near Statesboro, sheriff’s office says

BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - [Update as of 3/25/26 at 6:50 p.m.] A pilot is now dead after a single-engine plane crash Tuesday afternoon near Statesboro, according to the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say the aircraft took off shortly before 3 p.m. from Statesboro. The pilot, who was not from the area, had been working on the plane and was conducting a test flight prior to its delivery.

The plane later went down, and the pilot was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials say both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been notified and are expected to take over the investigation on Wednesday.

Deputies will remain on scene to secure the area until federal investigators arrive.

This is a developing story. Stick with WTOC as more information becomes available.

Emergency crews are actively responding to a single-engine plane crash near the intersection of Highway 24 and Sand Spur Road, according to the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials are urging the public to avoid the area as first responders work at the scene.

The site remains active, and access is restricted to ensure the safety of emergency personnel and to allow crews to carry out their duties without interference.

The Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that no one should attempt to enter or approach the crash site.

Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, authorities say no additional details are being released at this time.

This is a developing story. Stick with WTOC as more information becomes available.