David Kornreich and Andrew R. Harrell Obituary, ENFIELD, N.Y. — David Kornreich, 52, and Andrew R. Harrell, 31, have died following a small aircraft crash Sunday near North Applegate Road in Enfield, west of Ithaca, according to the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office.
Kornreich, who was the owner of the aircraft, was pronounced dead at the scene after the 1977 Lake LA-4-200 plane crashed with two people aboard. Harrell, who was initially transported to Cayuga Medical Center in critical condition, later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
According to authorities, the aircraft had been cleared for takeoff from Ithaca Airport at approximately 11:24 a.m. The last reported contact between the aircraft and the airport control tower occurred at approximately 12:02 p.m.
A witness notified emergency services around 12:35 p.m. after reporting that the aircraft had gone down. The witness indicated that the plane appeared to have experienced a possible mechanical issue before the crash, though investigators have not confirmed whether a mechanical failure contributed to the incident.
Emergency crews responded to the crash site shortly after the report was received. The Ithaca Fire Department and Trumansburg Fire Department were among the agencies dispatched at approximately 12:47 p.m., with additional support provided by Guthrie Air and other emergency personnel.
Multiple agencies assisted with the response, including the New York State Police, New York State Park Police, Enfield Fire & Rescue, Department of Emergency Response, Ithaca Airport Fire Department and Trumansburg Fire Department. First responders located the aircraft and its occupants at the scene.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Officials have not released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash as investigators continue their review.
David Kornreich and Andrew R. Harrell are remembered following a tragic aircraft accident that claimed both of their lives. As authorities continue their investigation, thoughts remain with those affected by their passing, and further information will be released when confirmed by officials.
