By: Sandy Actionable May 28, 2026

Two Injured in Collision Near Raleigh East Airport in Knightdale, NC

Accident News

Knightdale, NC (May 28, 2026) – Two people were hurt after a small plane crashed near Raleigh East Airport in Knightdale on Thursday, May 28. The wreck happened around 2:30 p.m. near Three Sisters Road.

Officials said a 2009 Rainbow Cheetah XLS struck several enclosed storage trailers while traveling southwest near the end of the runway. The plane then continued southwest, hit several trees, and came down in a ravine beyond the runway.

The aircraft sustained heavy damage to its wings and cockpit. Emergency units arrived and found both people on board conscious.

Officials identified the two men as Luis Quijano and John Wellman. Both were taken to WakeMed, where they are expected to recover.

Flight records showed the plane had taken off from Cox Airport in Apex earlier that day. Wellman was described as an experienced flight instructor and retired Air Force command pilot.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken over the investigation into what caused the crash.

We wish both men a full and swift recovery.

Who Can Be Held Liable After a Plane Crash in Knightdale, NC?

Two Injured in Collision Near Raleigh East Airport After a plane crash in Knightdale, NC the pilot, aircraft manufacturer, maintenance company, aircraft owner, or airport operator may all be held liable. Determining responsibility often depends on the evidence gathered during the investigation and the specific cause of the crash.

In Knightdale, Raleigh East Airport sits near Smithfield Road and Poole Road in eastern Wake County. The area also connects to Interstate 540, U.S. Route 64, and Knightdale Boulevard. While plane crashes are rare, small airports and nearby development can bring air and ground activity close together.

Once federal investigators release their findings, those details can help show where fault may fall. If pilot error contributed to the crash, a claim may involve the pilot or an employer. If a mechanical problem caused the crash, the manufacturer or a parts supplier may face liability.

Because North Carolina follows contributory negligence, injury claims can become difficult. If an injured person shares even a small amount of fault, they may lose the right to recover compensation. That makes early evidence collection important.

If poor maintenance played a role, the company responsible for inspecting or servicing the plane may face a claim. Missed inspections, faulty repairs, or improperly installed parts can shift liability away from the pilot. The aircraft owner may also face questions if they hired an unqualified provider.

A personal injury lawyer can review the crash report, flight records, and maintenance history to determine which parties may be responsible for the crash. An attorney can also communicate with insurers and help protect your rights during the claims process.

Our team at Brent Adams & Associates helps families across North Carolina handle complex injury claims after serious crashes. We can help you understand how liability, medical records, and federal investigation findings may affect your case.

If you were hurt in a crash in Knightdale and want to discuss your options, you can contact Brent Adams & Associates at (910) 249-6891.

Note: This article is based on information gathered from publicly available sources and reports. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, some details may change as additional facts become available. If you believe any part of this content is inaccurate or incomplete, please contact Brent Adams & Associates so it can be reviewed and updated accordingly.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. Reading this article does not establish an attorney-client relationship, nor should it be interpreted as a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured or require legal guidance, you should seek immediate medical care and consult a qualified attorney. Any images used are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual individuals, vehicles, or locations involved in the incident.

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