2 Farmingdale State Students Killed in Air Crash

Two students from the Farmingdale State College aviation program were killed in a crash flight Wednesday night in Pennsylvania.

The dead were identified Thursday as Patrick Sheridan, 34, of Long Beach, the pilot, and  Casey Falconer, 19, of Garden City Park.

A third student, Evan Kisseloff of Oceanside, survived.

Pennsylvania state police say the crash occurred near Spring Hill Airport in Wayne County at about 10:35 p.m. Wednesday. A preliminary report by the FAA said the plane crashed on takeoff.

College spokesman Patrick Calabria said the students were on a private trip and not flying a college plane. “Our campus is in shock and we are all trying to come to grips with this tragedy. Our hearts are with the family and friends of the two students who died. President Keen has released a message to the entire campus community and is in the process of reaching out to the families of the victims to offer whatever comfort and support is needed, as well as to the student who survived.  

"Students, faculty and staff are being encouraged to use the campus personal counseling service which is standing by if they need,” Calabria said.

Wayne County coroner Edward Howell said Thursday autopsies would be conducted Friday.