A private aircraft crashed in upstate New York over the weekend, tragically claiming the lives of six individuals, including a family of medical professionals and notable recent student-athletes. The twin-engine Mitsubishi MU-2B was en route to the Catskills for a birthday celebration and Passover holiday when it went down in a muddy field in Copake, New York, near the Massachusetts border, shortly after noon on Saturday.
The victims included Karenna Groff, a former MIT soccer player who was recognized as the 2022 NCAA Woman of the Year. She was accompanied by her father, Dr. Michael Groff, a neuroscientist, her mother, Dr. Joy Saini, a urogynecologist, and her boyfriend, James Santoro, a recent MIT graduate. James Santoro’s father, John Santoro, expressed deep sorrow, noting the loss of individuals who were poised to contribute significantly to the world.
Karenna Groff met James Santoro during her time at MIT, where she was an All-American soccer player studying biomedical engineering. James, a math major from New Jersey, played lacrosse. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Groff co-founded openPPE, an initiative to develop new mask designs for essential workers. In 2023, she was honored with the prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year award for her academic and athletic achievements. After graduation, Groff pursued medical studies at New York University, while Santoro worked as an investment associate at Silver Point, a hedge fund in Greenwich, Connecticut.
The group departed from an airport in White Plains, New York, on Saturday morning aboard Michael Groff’s private plane, planning to arrive at Columbia County Airport. However, the aircraft crashed approximately 20 miles south of the intended destination. Columbia County Undersheriff Jacqueline Salvatore described the crash site as challenging to access due to muddy conditions.
The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an investigation and is expected to provide an update soon. Funeral arrangements are currently being organized.
The Human Element Explored
The loss of this family and their companions is a profound tragedy, affecting not only their loved ones but the broader communities they touched through their professional and personal endeavors. The Groff family’s contributions to medicine and community initiatives like openPPE highlight the potential impact one can make in times of crisis. This incident underscores the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of travel, prompting reflections on safety and the value of community support in times of grief.
For many, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing moments with loved ones and recognizing the broader contributions individuals can make beyond personal achievements. The tragedy also emphasizes the ongoing need for advancements in aviation safety to prevent future incidents, ensuring that travelers can reach their destinations safely.
