Dream Beach Vacation Turns to Devastation: Beloved Family of Four Lost in North Carolina Plane Crash
What was meant to be a joyful return from a family beach getaway turned into a heartbreaking tragedy for the Buchanans. On July 7, Travis and Candace Buchanan, both 35, along with their two young children—10-year-old Aubrey and 9-year-old Walker—were flying home when their small plane suddenly crashed near Sanford Raleigh Executive Airport in Lee County, North Carolina.
The Buchanans, who own Buchanan Farms in Sanford, had spent time relaxing at the beach in Merritt Island, Florida. Just after 11 a.m., they took off for their journey home. But less than 20 minutes from landing, their single-engine plane tragically went down in a heavily wooded area under circumstances that remain unclear.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, discovering three of the family members had died at the scene. The fourth was rushed to a nearby hospital but was later pronounced dead, leaving the community shattered.
As investigators work to uncover the cause, the loss is felt deeply across Sanford. The Buchanans were not only hardworking farmers but pillars of the community—known for their kindness, dedication, and warmth.
A neighboring farm, Pint Sized Pasture, expressed the sorrow felt by many in a heartfelt Facebook post:
“Our hearts are shattered… The Buchanans were more than just fellow farmers—they were the cornerstone of this community. Their kindness and spirit touched us all. It’s simply unfathomable to imagine life without them.”
In the wake of this tragedy, a community grieves the loss of a family who brought light and love to those around them.
In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, Visit NC Farms shared a touching tribute on Facebook:
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the unimaginable loss of the Buchanan family, who tragically passed during their journey home to North Carolina. Buchanan Farms wasn’t just a place—it was a sanctuary where life slowed down, and families created memories that now carry even deeper meaning.”
The Buchanans were more than farmers; they were cherished friends and vital members of the community. A local favorite, Los Charros Mexican Restaurant, honored their memory with a heartfelt message:
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the Buchanan family’s passing. Travis, his wife, and their children were more than customers—they were friends. I still remember the day Travis brought us his fresh harvests to try. We even named a margarita after his farm in tribute.”
Despite the profound loss, the spirit of Buchanan Farms lives on. A community member recently witnessed a moving scene—workers quietly carrying on with their tasks, a living tribute to the Buchanans’ enduring legacy. Their dedication speaks volumes, a silent testament to a family who touched so many lives.
“The look and wave I received from the gentleman on the tractor today broke my heart,” shared neighbor Rebekah Angel Walters on social media. Along with heartfelt words, she posted photos of Buchanan Farms workers quietly tending the fields. “I’m not sure who is now in charge, but these employees were out there working hard to carry on the Buchanan family’s farming legacy.”
While many search for answers, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has confirmed, according to WRAL, that the pilot—presumed to be one of the parents—reported engine trouble along with a loss of communication and navigation equipment shortly before the Cirrus SR22T crashed.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, we send our deepest condolences to the Buchanan family’s loved ones and all who were touched by their lives. Please share your thoughts and sympathies in the comments below, and help spread this story so we can come together in remembrance.