Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge was the first person killed in a plane crash.
A Tragic Moment in Aviation History
The very early days of flight were groundbreaking, yet inherently dangerous. A significant tragedy occurred that marked a somber first in aviation history.
During a flight, Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge was tragically involved in an accident that proved fatal. This event etched his name into the annals of history as the first person to die as the result of an airplane accident.
The incident also involved aviation pioneer Orville Wright, who, while seriously injured, survived the crash. Lt. Selfridge was on the flight as a passenger when the accident took place.
| Individual | Role | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Orville Wright | Pilot | Seriously Injured |
| Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge | Passenger | Fatally Injured |
This unfortunate event highlighted the inherent risks associated with early aeronautical experiments and significantly impacted the nascent field of aviation safety.
You can find more details about this event here:
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This accident serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by early pioneers in the pursuit of flight.
