Small plane crashes on Texas highway. Photo: Shutterstock A fatal plane crash in Laredo, Texas, has forced the closure of a major section of Loop 20 as investigators continue working at the scene.
The crash occurred shortly before 10 p.m. on June 16, 2026, when a privately operated aircraft carrying six people went down near the Saunders Street and Clark Boulevard area. Authorities confirmed that one person died in the incident, while the conditions of the remaining occupants have not yet been fully disclosed.
The aircraft also struck a vehicle traveling on the highway, though those occupants survived and were taken to the hospital.
Following the crash, the Laredo Police Department (LPD) announced extensive traffic restrictions around the scene.
"All northbound and southbound traffic on the Loop is currently closed near the Saunders Street / Clark Boulevard area," police said in a public advisory. Northbound closures begin at Cuatro Vientos Road, while southbound traffic is being diverted at Saunders Street.
Motorists have been urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes until further notice.
According to authorities, airport personnel had reported that the aircraft was experiencing mechanical issues before communication was lost. Emergency crews, police officers, and bystanders rushed to assist survivors after the aircraft burst into flames on impact. Five police officers were later treated for smoke inhalation and were reported to be in stable condition
As the investigation continues with help from the FBI, the NTSB, and other agencies, LPD is asking members of the public who may have recorded the incident or its aftermath to submit any relevant video footage to investigators.