North Smithfield, Rhode Island – October 3, 1926
On October 3, 1926, a pilot was offering airplane rides at Ballou Field in North Smithfield. As the plane was taking off with two female passengers, it reached a height of only 75 feet before it fell back to earth and crashed into a stone wall bordering the field. The aircraft suffered damage to the undercarriage, wings and propeller, but none of the occupants were injured.
The pilot blamed the “curiosity of children” for the accident, claiming kids had tampered with the plane while it stood unguarded overnight.
It was reported that the plane would be repaired, and ready for more flights in a few days.
Source:
(Prov.) Evening Bulletin, “Two Girl Fliers And Pilot Unhurt In Plane Crash”, October 4, 1926, pg6.
