Wisconsin Rep. Tom Tiffany suffers minor injuries when his plane makes an emergency landing in a lake
Wisconsin Rep Tom Tiffany Suffers Minor Injuries in Lake Landing
Qwenews.com – Wisconsin Rep Tom Tiffany suffers minor injuries after a small plane carrying him made an emergency landing on Lake Wausau in central Wisconsin on Saturday night. Tiffany said the aircraft lost power as it approached Wausau Downtown Airport.
The Republican congressman had been returning home after attending the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner in Onalaska. The pilot brought the plane down on the lake after the reported power loss.
After the aircraft landed, it began taking on water, according to Tiffany’s account. Tiffany and the pilot contacted emergency services, exited the plane and swam toward shallower water, where they waited for rescuers.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, and all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly,” Tiffany said.
Rescuers take both occupants to shore
Emergency crews removed both men from the water and transported them to Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Tiffany said he and the pilot received treatment and praised the response from firefighters and other first responders.
“They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care,” Tiffany said.
Dispatch audio indicated that someone aboard the plane called 911. A later radio transmission reported that two people had been rescued and were being brought back to shore by boat. Both occupants were described as alert and conscious.
Wisconsin Rep Tom Tiffany suffers no reported serious injuries in the incident. He said he was grateful to be safe and was joined at the hospital by his wife, Chris.
Authorities secure lake landing site
The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office said the aircraft would be marked with a buoy and asked people to stay away from the area. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources personnel and the Wisconsin State Patrol also responded.
The Federal Aviation Administration is expected to investigate the emergency landing and the reported loss of power. The available information has not identified a cause for the aircraft’s power failure.
Investigators typically review the aircraft’s condition, flight information, maintenance history, weather and the sequence of events. The pilot’s actions and the rapid water rescue were central to preventing a more serious outcome.
Tiffany reflects after the emergency
Tiffany described the experience as a reminder of life’s fragility and credited the pilot and emergency responders for helping both occupants reach safety.
“God was watching over us tonight, and I am incredibly grateful to be here in the hospital with my wife, Chris, by my side. An experience like this reminds you just how precious life is,” Tiffany said.
The incident occurred as Tiffany prepares for Wisconsin’s gubernatorial election. A member of the House Freedom Caucus, he secured the Republican nomination with support from President Donald Trump.
David Crowley, Tiffany’s Democratic opponent, offered well wishes after the landing. Crowley said he was thankful Tiffany and the other occupant were not seriously hurt and praised the pilot’s response during the emergency.
“I wish them and the Congressman a quick recovery and that they can find solace with their loved ones,” Crowley said.
FAQ: Tom Tiffany’s emergency landing in Wisconsin
Where did the plane land?
The aircraft made an emergency landing on Lake Wausau near Wausau Downtown Airport in central Wisconsin.
What happened after the plane reached the water?
The plane began taking on water. Tiffany and the pilot exited, swam to shallower water and were rescued by emergency crews.
How is Tom Tiffany doing?
Wisconsin Rep Tom Tiffany suffers minor injuries, according to his public account. He and the pilot were conscious when responders brought them ashore and were taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
What should people do near the aircraft site?
The Marathon County Sheriff’s Office urged people to avoid the marked area so responders and investigators can work safely.