Illinois State Police are investigating a fatal plane crash that occurred Saturday morning in Trilla, Illinois, a rural area between Coles and Cumberland Counties. The crash involved a small, single-engine aircraft with four people on board.
Authorities say the incident happened around 10:15 a.m. near 551-587 County Road 1400 N, approximately three miles south of Mattoon and just southwest of the Coles County Memorial Airport. Illinois State Police Troop 7 responded to the scene after receiving reports of a downed aircraft.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the aircraft was a Cessna 180, a small single-engine plane. According to the FAA, the aircraft went down in a field southwest of the airport. Illinois State Police have labeled the crash as part of a “fatal aircraft investigation,” though specific details about casualties have not yet been released.
Terrible news out of Coles County.
My administration is monitoring the situation as we keep those impacted by the plane crash in our thoughts today.
Thank you to the first responders who rushed to the scene.
Please follow the guidance of officials as they provide assistance.
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) April 19, 2025
Authorities reported that the aircraft came to rest on a roadway in the area, prompting a complete shutdown of that section of the road. Officials have not disclosed how long the road will remain closed, as investigators continue to process the scene.
Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now involved in the investigation. These agencies will work alongside local and state law enforcement to determine the cause of the crash and any contributing factors.
There is currently no information available regarding the identities of the individuals on board or what may have led to the crash. Officials have not commented on whether weather, mechanical failure, or other factors may have played a role.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information is released by authorities.
