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Former Patriots star tight end Russ Francis killed in Lake Placid plane crash

Kings Of Boston



Tragedy has struck Boston sports fans for the 2nd day in a row. Former New England Patriots tight end Russ Francis was been killed in a plane crash in Lake Placid, New York. He was 70.

According to the Lake Placid News, Francis and a companion, vice president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Richard McSpadden, took off from Lake Placid Airport in a Cessna 177 Cardinal on Sunday afternoon. The craft then “experienced an emergency after takeoff” and crashed at the end of the runway at 4:09 p.m.

“The airplane attempted to return to the airport but failed to make the runway,” the AOPA said in a statement. “Both occupants lost their lives.”

Francis had recently purchased the Lake Placid Airways scenic tour business. Francis loved flying and grew up wanting to be a pilot. It is not clear if he was flying the plane when it crashed, or if McSpadden was.

Francis spent 13 seasons in the NFL starting in 1975 when the Patriots drafted him with the 16th overall pick.

“On behalf of the entire New England Patriots organization, we extend our sincerest sympathies to the family of Russ Francis, who tragically passed away yesterday,” Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a statement. “Russ was a fan favorite throughout his playing career. He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even bigger personality off it. He knew no boundaries, pushed the limits and lived his life to the fullest. Our thoughts are with Russ’s family, friends, teammates and the many Patriots fans who mourn his loss.”