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Indian student among 12 killed in Missouri plane crash
Cause of fatal skydiving plane crash remains under investigation by federal authorities
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Malvika Choudhary - Fri, 19, Jun 2026
- 17:46 EDT
- 28
Sai Karthik Varma Datla / GoFundMe
An Indian-origin student was among the 12 people killed when a skydiving plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Butler, Missouri, on June 14, according to local authorities.
The victim was identified as Sai Karthik Varma Datla, 24, a recent graduate of the University of Central Missouri who had earned a master's degree in computer science.
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The aircraft was carrying 11 skydivers and a pilot when it went down shortly after departure.The Bates County Coroner's Office released the names of the victims on June 16.
Datla had arrived in the United States in January 2023 to pursue higher education and build a career, according to a fundraiser organized by family friend Someswara Rao Kola. He recently completed his master's degree and hoped to support his family and provide them with a better future.
The fundraiser described him as a hardworking, kind and determined individual who cared deeply for his loved ones and worked tirelessly to achieve his goals.
A statement from the UAW Local 249 Consumer Affairs Committee said Datla worked at an Amoco gas station and was well known to many members of the union. The organization said he also worked at AdventHealth while pursuing his studies at the University of Central Missouri.
"It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of Sai Karthik Varma Datla, age 24," the committee said in a social media post. "Sai tragically succumbed to his injuries following a plane crash during a recreational skydiving trip shortly after takeoff."
The committee described him as a dedicated student who balanced work and academic commitments "with determination and heart," adding that his loss was deeply felt by those who knew him.
The crash was one of two fatal incidents that struck Butler within a span of three days. In a statement released Wednesday, city officials said 13 people had died in two separate tragedies, including the skydiving crash that claimed 12 lives.
"On behalf of myself, the City Council and all our employees, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all the victims of these tragedies and will keep them in our thoughts and prayers," Butler Mayor Jim Henry said.
He also thanked first responders for their efforts in responding to the incidents.
The cause of the plane crash remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. The agency said a preliminary report is expected within 30 days, while a final report determining the probable cause and contributing factors could take between 12 and 24 months to complete.
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