Massachusetts Plane Crash

 A Massachusetts plane crash family of six, including a former NCAA Woman of the Year and renowned physicians, tragically died in a plane crash near the New York-Massachusetts border. Learn about their legacy and the ongoing investigation.  

A Devastating Loss for Massachusetts plane crash and Beyond 

On April 12, 2025, a small plane carrying six members of a Massachusetts-based family crashed in a muddy field in Copake, New York, just miles from the Massachusetts plane crash border. The victims included a celebrated NCAA athlete, respected doctors, and bright young professionals whose lives were cut short during a trip to celebrate Passover and a family birthday. The tragedy has left communities at MIT, Harvard, and beyond in mourning .  

What Happened? Key Details About the Crash  

The twin-engine Mitsubishi MU-2B, piloted by Dr. Michael Groff, departed from Westchester County Airport in New York and was headed to Columbia County Airport in Hudson, New York. Shortly after noon, the plane missed its initial landing approach. Air traffic controllers issued a low-altitude alert three times but received no response from the pilot. Moments later, the aircraft crashed at a high speed into a muddy agricultural field, killing everyone on board .  




Key Facts:

- Location: Copake, NY, 10 miles south of Columbia County Airport.  

- Weather: Snow and rain from a coastal storm may have impacted visibility.  

- Aircraft: A Mitsubishi MU-2B with upgraded FAA-certified technology, purchased a year prior.  

- Investigation: The NTSB is reviewing flight data, weather conditions, and video footage of the crash .  

The Victims: A Family of Trailblazers 

The Groff-Saini family was known for their contributions to medicine, sports, and education. Here’s who they were:  

1. Karenna Groff (25):  

   - NCAA Woman of the Year (2022): A soccer star at MIT and biomedical engineering graduate.  

   - Medical Student: Enrolled at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.  

   - COVID Hero: Co-founded openPPE, creating masks for frontline workers .  


2. Dr. Michael Groff (58):  

   - Neurosurgeon and Pilot: Learned to fly at 16; owned the plane.  

   - Harvard Medical School Professor: Specialized in spinal surgery .  

3. Dr. Joy Saini (56): 

   - Urogynecologist: Founded Boston Pelvic Health and Wellness.  

   - Immigrant Story: Born in India, trained at the University of Pittsburgh .  

4. Jared Groff (24):  

   - Swarthmore Graduate: Worked as a paralegal.  

   - Planned Harvard Law Attendee: Partnered with Alexia Couyutas Duarte .  


5. Alexia Couyutas Duarte (24):  

   - Swarthmore Alumna: Set to start Harvard Law in fall 2025 .  


6. James Santoro (25):

   - MIT Math Graduate: Lacrosse player and investment associate in Connecticut.  

   - Karenna’s Partner: Met at MIT as freshmen .  

Why Did the massachusetts Plane Crash? The Investigation So Far

The NTSB has not yet determined the cause, but here’s what we know:  

- Missed Approach: The pilot radioed air traffic control about a failed landing attempt and requested a new plan .  

- No Distress Call: Controllers tried to warn the pilot about low altitude but got no response .  

- Weather Challenges: Snow and mud complicated rescue efforts and may have affected visibility .  

- Aircraft History: The Mitsubishi MU-2B has a controversial safety record, though this model had recent upgrades .  

A final report could take 12–24 months, but a preliminary update is expected within 30 days .

A Community in Mourning 

The Groff-Saini family touched countless lives:  

- MIT and Harvard Tributes: Karenna was praised for her “grace, kindness, and brilliance” by NYU .  

- Legacy of Service: Friends are raising funds for women in STEM and youth athletes in their honor .  

- Family Statements: “The world lost a lot of very good people,” said John Santoro, James’ father .  

Could This Crash Have Been Prevented? 

While the NTSB investigates, aviation experts highlight:  

- Pilot Experience: Dr. Groff was licensed and experienced but flying a complex aircraft.  

- Weather Preparedness: The MU-2B requires advanced skills in poor conditions .  

- Safety Upgrades: Despite FAA-certified tech, the plane’s design demands rigorous training .  

Remembering the Victims 

This tragedy isn’t just about a crash—it’s about losing a family that embodied excellence and compassion. Karenna’s work in PPE saved lives during COVID. Dr. Saini empowered women through pelvic health. Jared and Alexia aimed to pursue justice through law. Their stories remind us to cherish every moment .  

Final Massachusetts Plane Crash

As investigators work to uncover the truth, the Groff-Saini family’s legacy lives on. Their story—of love, ambition, and service—will inspire generations. For updates on the NTSB’s findings, follow trusted news sources or visit the FAA’s official site.

FAQ: Massachusetts Plane Crash  

Q: Were there survivors? 

A: No. All six passengers died on impact .  

Q: Was the pilot qualified?  

A: Yes. Dr. Groff had years of flying experience .  

Q: How can I help?  

A: Donate to STEM scholarships or youth sports in their memory .