Cutler man reported dead in South Carolina plane crash
by Sarah Craighead Dedmon
Andy Patterson of Cutler is reported to have died in a plane crash Saturday, March 25, in Johns Island, South Carolina.
Patterson was piloting the small aircraft when it crashed. Initial reports indicated Patterson was traveling with a passenger, but officials later clarified Patterson was alone in the Piper PA-28, according to the Charleston County News.
The Machias Valley Municipal Airport, where Patterson served on the airport committee, today posted about Patterson’s death.
“Yesterday we lost one of our own,” read the Facebook post. “Andy Patterson was making his annual trip to Sun N Fun doing what he enjoyed. He was an integral part of the airport committee and always willing to help. Fair Winds and Following Seas.”
Machias Town Manager and airport committee member Bill Kitchen said Andy will be greatly missed.
"Andy was a get-your-hands-dirty, nonstop supporter of the airport, and an early leader and driver of regional tourism," said Kitchen. "He made here better."
According to local news sources, several agencies responded to the scene of the crash, but it was only accessible by boat.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) responded to begin their investigation into the deadly crash.
Locally, Patterson was well known for his volunteer work with the Machias airport, his leadership role in the Cutler United Methodist Church, his IT work with local schools and Porter Memorial Library, his support of the Cutler 4th of July celebration, and his popular puffin boat tours.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.