Republican Representative Tom Tiffany, who is running for governor of Wisconsin, miraculously survived an emergency landing on Lake Wausau this Saturday. The small plane he was traveling in experienced a loss of power while returning from a campaign event.
The incident unfolded as the aircraft—a four-seat, single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza K35—encountered trouble while approaching Wausau Downtown Airport, located in the north-central part of the state.
The pilot made the critical decision to perform a water landing, resulting in both occupants ending up in the lake.
"After landing, we called 911. As the plane began to sink, we exited the aircraft and swam to shallow water, where we awaited rescue by emergency teams," Tiffany detailed on his X account.
The congressman was returning from La Crosse County’s Lincoln Day dinner, a political event amid the heated electoral campaign in Wisconsin, with less than two months until the governor's race on November 3rd.
Rescue teams from the Wausau Fire Department arrived by boat, rescuing both men, who were "alert and conscious" at the time. Tiffany and the pilot were taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital for medical evaluation.
In a follow-up message on Sunday, Tiffany confirmed he received stitches above his right eye and was released from the hospital that night. The pilot was also declared to be out of danger.
"I am especially grateful to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, law enforcement, first responders, and the Aspirus Wausau Hospital team for their incredible care and swift response," Tiffany expressed, announcing a press conference scheduled for today.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that it will launch an investigation into the accident involving the Beechcraft K35 carrying the two passengers.
His Democratic rival in the gubernatorial race, David Crowley, Milwaukee County Executive, expressed relief upon hearing the news: "I thank God that Congressman Tiffany—and no one else—was harmed in this incident, which could have ended in tragedy if not for the pilot's heroism."
Tom Tiffany, who represents Wisconsin's 7th District and has the endorsement of former President Donald Trump for his gubernatorial bid in the November elections, concluded with a personal reflection: "Experiences like this make you value life."
Key Questions About the Plane Crash Incident
What type of aircraft was involved in the crash?
The aircraft involved was a four-seat, single-engine Beechcraft Bonanza K35.
What caused the emergency landing on Lake Wausau?
The plane experienced a loss of power as it was approaching Wausau Downtown Airport, leading to the emergency landing.
Who assisted in the rescue after the crash?
Rescue teams from the Wausau Fire Department arrived by boat and successfully rescued both men from the lake.