Ohio: At least two people were killed after a small aircraft crashed into a house in Akron on Thursday afternoon, causing a large fire and heavy smoke in the surrounding residential area.

According to officials, the crash involved a single-engine Piper PA-28 aircraft that went down in a neighbourhood on Canterbury Circle at around 3:45 pm local time.

The aircraft crash triggered an intense fire that quickly engulfed parts of the residential structure. Thick smoke was seen rising from the area as emergency crews rushed to the scene.

Firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent flames from spreading to nearby homes in the Coventry Crossing residential development.

Authorities said the surrounding neighbourhood was secured shortly after emergency teams arrived.

Officials confirmed that at least two people lost their lives in the crash. However, authorities have not yet publicly released the identities of the victims.

It remains unclear whether the deceased were occupants of the aircraft, residents of the house, or both. Investigators are continuing efforts to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

Residents nearby escape safely

Despite the severity of the fire and damage caused by the crash, nearby residents reportedly escaped without injuries. Emergency responders evacuated parts of the area as a precaution while firefighting operations continued.

District Fire Chief Sierjie Lash said multiple local and state agencies responded to secure the neighbourhood and assist with emergency operations.

According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, the Piper PA-28 aircraft had taken off from Akron Regional Airport before the crash occurred.

Officials have not yet confirmed the aircraft’s intended destination or what may have caused the plane to lose control.

Authorities are expected to launch a detailed investigation into the cause of the crash. Aviation investigators will examine the aircraft wreckage, flight conditions, and communication records to determine what led to the accident.

The incident has drawn significant attention as visuals from the crash site showing heavy flames and smoke circulated widely online.