A teacher, a cancer survivor and a new dad: victims of Missouri skydiving plane crash identified

Key Points:

• A skydiving plane crash in Missouri killed all 12 people on board, including nine experienced skydivers, two tandem jumpers, and the pilot; the aircraft nosedived shortly after takeoff from Butler airport.
• Among the victims was Dave Hershberger, a beloved high school music teacher and veteran skydiver, mourned by students and colleagues for his passion and kindness.
• Other victims included Matthew Swope, a cancer survivor and expert skydiver, and Will Fischer, who was preparing to become a skydiving instructor; several victims were close to instructor certification.
• Jen Sharp, director of technology for the US Parachute Association, was also killed, with the organization expressing deep sorrow over her loss and impact on the skydiving community.
• The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash, with preliminary findings expected in the coming weeks; past NTSB reports have highlighted weak regulatory oversight and maintenance issues in the skydiving industry.