Former MLB player had history with plane involved in fatal crash

(AP) One person was killed on Saturday when a small plane crash-landed on Interstate 15 near San Diego. The pilot, Dennis Hogge, and an unnamed passenger survived the crash but reportedly suffered major injuries. The plane also slammed into a car stopped on the side of the road, killing a female passenger. Three other people in the vehicle suffered non life-threatening injuries.

According to the Associated Press, the plane involved in the crash was built and owned by former major-league catcher Matt Nokes. In a bizarre twist, it’s also noted that Nokes once safely landed the same plane on the same highway 16 years ago.

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The plane was made from a kit in 2000 by Matthew Nokes, according to Federal Aviation Administration records.

A former major league catcher by the same name landed the same make and model of aircraft on Interstate 15 on Feb. 18, 2000. Nokes told The Associated Press at the time that it was the plane’s second flight and the engine quit because of a problem with the oil filter.

He guided the $500,000 plane to a smooth landing on the busy freeway and taxied off the road. No one was injured

Matt Nokes (AP) Matt Nokes told The Associated Press that he sold the plane years ago, but was familiar with Dennis Hogge. Nokes cited him as an outstanding pilot and plane builder.

According to witnesses, the single-engine plane appeared to be having issues before turning sharply and coming down. Another said he couldn’t hear the plane’s engine as it came overhead, indicating it had already shut down. The plane reportedly landed on its belly and then skidded at least 200 feet before striking the rear of a black Nissan Altima sedan.

That same stretch of highway, which is located about 50 miles north of San Diego, has been the site of several similar incidents in the past. California Highway Patrol Officer Chris Parent said he’s aware of three other planes that have come down near that location in the past decade alone. Apparently, under some circumstances and conditions, it can effectively function as a landing strip. Unfortunately, the circumstances didn’t line up on Saturday.

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As for Nokes, the now 52-year-old retired from MLB in 1995. He spent parts of 11 seasons in MLB, suiting up for the Giants, Tigers, Yankees, Orioles and Rockies. He was selected to one All-Star team in 1987 and finished his career with 136 home runs.

The report does not indicate whether or not Nokes is still involved in building and flying planes.

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