Essex County, NY – A tragic accident occurred Friday, Nov. 6, when a small vintage aircraft struck a woman on the runway of Catalano Airfield in the town of Wilmington. The 67‑year‑old victim, identified as Pamela Haselton, was attempting to move a camera tripod out of the plane’s path when the aircraft, a 1943 Aeronca L3, collided with her.
Details of the incident
New York State Police troopers were dispatched to the private airfield on Hazelton Road at approximately 3:47 p.m. after receiving a report of an aircraft‑related incident. According to the State Police, the Aeronca L3, a single‑engine, two‑seat plane, had successfully landed and was taxiing toward a hangar when it struck Ms. Haselton.
The pilot, 77‑year‑old James Catalano, also a Wilmington resident, reported that he did not see the tripod or Ms. Haselton before the collision. Investigators said the woman had been photographing the aircraft, using a camera mounted on a tripod positioned on the runway. As the plane approached, she tried to relocate the tripod, but the aircraft’s wheels made contact with her.
Emergency response
First‑responders administered life‑saving measures at the scene, but Ms. Haselton was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The investigation remains ongoing, with New York State Police working alongside the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the exact sequence of events and any contributing factors.
Community reaction
Local residents expressed sorrow over the loss of a longtime community member. “Pamela was a familiar face at local events and always eager to capture the beauty of our area,” said a neighbor who asked to remain anonymous. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols for photographers and hobbyists at private airfields.
Safety considerations
Aviation experts note that private airfields often have fewer formal safety measures than larger commercial airports. Pilots and ground personnel are encouraged to maintain clear communication and to ensure that any equipment placed on runways is secured well before aircraft movements. The FAA recommends that individuals photographing aircraft keep a safe distance and avoid positioning gear directly on active runways.
Authorities have not indicated whether any regulatory changes will be pursued as a result of this accident, but the ongoing investigation will likely inform future guidance for both pilots and civilians who use airfield facilities for photography or other activities.
Next steps
The State Police, FAA, and NTSB will continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review any available video or photographic material. A full report is expected to be released once the investigative agencies complete their analysis.
Our thoughts are with Ms. Haselton’s family and friends during this difficult time. The community is reminded to exercise caution when near active aircraft operations, especially at smaller, privately‑owned fields where standard airport safety personnel may not be present.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
