Columbia, CA…From the Tuolumne Sheriff’s Office…”The victims have been identified as 73-year-old Robert Clough and 71-year-old Robert Parriott, both of Sonora. Robert Clough was determined to be the pilot and Robert Parriott the solo passenger inside the aircraft. The preliminary cause of death is major trauma; however, the final cause is pending autopsy. The cause of the crash along with the circumstances are being investigated by the NTSB. We are saddened by this tragic loss and want to extend our condolences to their family and friends.

**UPDATE: 8:00 pm**

Deputies will remain on scene throughout the night for scene security. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will arrive tomorrow to conduct an investigation.

Details are still being gathered and no identification has been made on the decedents. Check back tomorrow for updated information.

**ORIGINAL**
Right now, deputies are on scene of a small plane crash on the 21000 block of Springfield Road.

We got a call to our office just after 6 o’clock tonight. Two people in the plane have died. There is no threat to nearby communities. We don’t know the circumstances of the crash or the plane’s destination.

We have notified the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and will post any updates”