Fatal Plane Crash Under Investigation in Spotsylvania

State of VA - Virginia State Police are investigating a deadly plane crash in Spotsylvania County. The crash happened around 11:05 a.m. today, July 14, 2026, near Shannon Airport. One person was on board.

Officials identified the victim as Rowland A. Babcock, Jr., 78, of Ruther Glen, Virginia. He died from injuries suffered in the crash. He was flying a single-engine plane at the time.

State police are leading the investigation into what caused the crash. The Federal Aviation Administration has been notified. The National Transportation Safety Board has also been notified and will assist in determining the cause.

Shannon Airport is a small regional airport used mostly by private and small aircraft. Crashes involving single-engine planes are often tied to mechanical issues, weather, or pilot error, though officials have not released a cause here. Investigators will need time to review the wreckage and gather more information.

This is a developing story. Eastern Shore Undercover will share updates as state police, the FAA, and the NTSB release more details. Our thoughts are with Babcock's family and loved ones during this difficult time.