Wisconsin Congressman Tom Tiffany and his pilot escaped serious harm late Saturday evening when their aircraft lost power and made an emergency landing in Lake Wausau, forcing both men to swim to safety as the plane began to sink.
Tiffany, who represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District and currently serves as the Republican nominee for governor, sustained only minor injuries in the incident. The aircraft, identified by the Federal Aviation Administration as a Beechcraft K35, experienced a loss of power while approaching the Wausau Downtown Airport.
According to emergency services radio communications, rescue teams responded to reports of a downed aircraft with two people in the water. First responders arrived promptly to find both occupants alert and conscious. The Wausau Fire Department and additional emergency personnel transported both men to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where they received treatment.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, and all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly,” Tiffany stated. “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care. Thankfully, both the pilot and I sustained only minor injuries.”
The Federal Aviation Administration has opened an investigation into the crash, which occurred as the November 3 gubernatorial election approaches. Tiffany has received President Donald Trump’s endorsement in the race.
In a demonstration of bipartisan civility, Tiffany’s Democratic opponent, David Crowley, expressed relief at the outcome. “I’m grateful to God that Congressman Tiffany and no one else was hurt in this horrifying incident, which could have been a tragedy if not for the heroism of the pilot,” Crowley stated. “I wish them and the Congressman a quick recovery and that they can find solace with their loved ones.”
Tiffany reflected on the gravity of the incident, noting that “an experience like this reminds you just how precious life is.”
The crash represents a sobering moment in what has been a closely watched gubernatorial contest in Wisconsin, a key battleground state. Both campaigns are expected to continue their electoral activities as the investigation into the aircraft malfunction proceeds.
Details regarding the specific cause of the power loss remain under investigation by federal authorities. The quick response by local emergency services and the pilot’s successful water landing prevented what could have resulted in a far more serious outcome.
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