Small Aircraft Crashes Near Backus Rd and Highway 14

A small aircraft was reported to have crashed near Backus Road and Highway 14 after a caller witnessed the plane heading toward the ground, followed by a visible column of smoke. Authorities responded quickly to the scene, with sheriff's deputies, California Highway Patrol (CHP), and fire department units en route with emergency lights flashing.

Updates:

• Liberty Air8 was placed on standby, prepared to assist with the situation.

• Kern County Fire Department (KCFD) confirmed that the plane went down near 25th Street West and Backus Road.

• CHP later reported that, despite initial concerns, the aircraft was able to reach a runway and land safely.

The incident, which initially seemed more serious, fortunately resulted in no major injuries. Emergency teams are continuing their assessment of the situation.