N4321Z Fatal Plane Crash in Broomfield, Colorado
On Saturday, 17 May 2025, an aircraft accident involving a Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron(N4321Z) had departed from Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (KBJC) in Broomfield at approximately 10:00 AM local time. According to air traffic control recordings, the pilot radioed the tower soon after takeoff from runway 30R with an urgent message: “We’re going to have to go back and re-land. We’ve got the door popped open… We can hardly hear you, sir.” The tower controller immediately responded, giving clearance to return to the airport with the urgent message, “ANY RUNWAY YOU NEED.” Despite being granted emergency landing clearance on any runway, the aircraft was unable to return safely to the airport. Communication was lost shortly afterward, and another pilot in the area reported to the tower, “They just went down north of 36.” The aircraft crashed in a field north of U.S. Highway 36, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.
Witnesses and Crash Scene
The crash occurred in a field near the intersection of Brainard Drive and Midway Boulevard, just north of Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport. The aircraft was fully engulfed in flames upon impact, but firefighters from North Metro Fire Rescue extinguished the fire within minutes of arrival. The small grass fire that resulted from the crash was quickly controlled.
Boulder County sheriff’s deputies secured the scene and remained at the crash site overnight. The wreckage was located in the south section of the Carolyn Holmberg Preserve near a set of railroad tracks.
A YouTuber commented, “I was one of the witnesses to this incident and one of the first on scene hoping to evacuate survivors. I was on US36 traveling west bound when his craft crossed the highway in front of me, low, slow and gear down. By the time he was next to my vehicle we were about eye level, or he was maybe 5deg above eye level, and then the left wing dropped and the craft did a 180 spin and went cockpit first into the ground.
I pulled over immediately, hopped off the highway and ran to the wreckage.
When I got close enough to the remains of the cockpit, it was clear nobody would have survived initial impact. Within a few minutes the aircraft was about burned to nothing. NTSB and many other agencies have interviewed me since.” Praying for the family, friends and colleagues.”
- Youtube @ParagonOSINT
Were You or Someone You Know Affected
#BREAKING: BEECHCRAFT BARON CRASHES NEAR BROOMFIELD — "WE HAVE A DOOR POPPED OPEN"
— Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler) May 17, 2025
I have just extracted audio of the tragic Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron crash (N4321Z) near Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC). Moments after takeoff from runway 30R, the pilot radioed, "WE HAVE… pic.twitter.com/bbgtgHDrNx
Victims
As of this writing (May 19, 2025), the identities of the two victims have not yet been officially released to the public. According to the Boulder County Coroner’s Office, the identification process and notification of families is still ongoing, which is standard procedure following aviation accidents.
The tight-knit aviation community at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (KBJC) and the broader Colorado flying community are already feeling the impact of this loss. While we await the official release of the victims’ names, pilots and aviation enthusiasts across the region have expressed their condolences and support for the families affected by this tragedy.
Once the victims’ identities are officially released, we will update this post with information about their aviation backgrounds and any memorial funds, GoFundMe campaigns, or commemorative events organized to honor their memory. The aviation community historically comes together strongly in times of loss, and we anticipate seeing similar support for the families of those lost in N4321Z.
Aircraft Details
- Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Time: c. 10:05 MDT
- Type: Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron
- Registration: N4321Z
- Year of Manufacture: c. 1964-1982 (production range)
- Maximum Capacity: 6 persons
- Departure airport: Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (KBJC)
- Destination airport: Unknown
- Phase of Flight: Initial climb after takeoff
- Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
The Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron is a twin-engine light aircraft widely respected in the aviation community for its performance, reliability, and versatility. With its distinctive twin-tail design and retractable landing gear, the Baron has maintained popularity among private owners, charter operations, and flight schools since its introduction in the 1960s. The aircraft features two Continental IO-470 engines producing approximately 260 horsepower each, allowing for a cruise speed of about 200 knots and a range of around 1,000 na
Investigation Status
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash of N4321Z. Steven Kulm, an FAA spokesperson, confirmed that officials from both agencies are investigating the incident, with the NTSB serving as the lead investigative agency.
A preliminary report from the NTSB is expected within the next 30 days, with a full investigation likely taking 12-24 months to complete. Investigators will analyze the aircraft wreckage, examine maintenance records, assess pilot experience and training, review weather conditions, and evaluate the reported door issue that precipitated the emergency.
Safety Considerations for Pilots
This tragic accident highlights several critical safety considerations for pilots operating similar aircraft:
- Door Security: The reported “door popped open” scenario emphasizes the importance of thoroughly checking all cabin doors and latches during preflight inspections. While a door opening in flight is typically not catastrophic in itself, it can lead to:
- Increased cockpit noise making communications difficult
- Cabin pressure changes and significant wind noise
- Pilot distraction during a critical phase of flight
- Compromised aerodynamics affecting aircraft handling
- Emergency Procedures: Having a well-practiced plan for handling in-flight emergencies, including cabin door issues, is essential. Pilots should:
- Prioritize flying the aircraft first
- Communicate the situation clearly to ATC
- Avoid aggressive maneuvering while managing the distraction
- Critical Flight Phases: The accident occurred shortly after takeoff—one of the most critical phases of flight. During this high-workload period, any distraction can be particularly dangerous. Pilots should maintain focus on flying the aircraft first and foremost, even when dealing with other issues.
- Twin-Engine Considerations: Operating twin-engine aircraft like the Baron requires specific skills and training. Pilots should maintain proficiency in all aspects of multi-engine operations, including engine-out procedures and maintaining directional control during emergencies.
(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Beechcraft 95-B55 Baron (N4321Z) to crash in Colorado?
While the official cause determination will come from the NTSB’s investigation, preliminary information indicates the pilot reported a door that had “popped open” shortly after takeoff. The pilot was attempting to return to the airport when the crash occurred. The exact chain of events leading to the accident is still under investigation.
Could an open door alone cause such a serious accident?
An open door by itself is typically not catastrophic for aircraft like the Baron. However, it can create significant noise, communication difficulties, distraction, and some aerodynamic effects. The combination of these factors, especially during a critical phase of flight like shortly after takeoff, can contribute to loss of control. The investigation will determine if other factors were involved.
Are Beechcraft Baron aircraft generally considered safe?
The Beechcraft Baron series has maintained a good safety record throughout its long production history when properly maintained and operated within its limitations. Like all twin-engine aircraft, it requires specific training and regular proficiency to operate safely, particularly in emergency situations.
What can pilots learn from this accident?
This accident reinforces several critical safety principles: (1) the importance of thorough preflight inspections, particularly of doors and latches; (2) the need to prioritize flying the aircraft first when emergencies arise; (3) the importance of maintaining proficiency in emergency procedures; and (4) the management of distractions during critical flight phases.
How common are door-related incidents in small aircraft?
While not among the most common causes of accidents, door issues do occur in general aviation. Most are resolved without incident, but they can create dangerous distractions, particularly for less experienced pilots or during critical phases of flight. Door security should be a standard part of every preflight check.
When will the final investigation report be released?
NTSB investigations typically take between 12-24 months to complete. A preliminary report is usually issued within 30 days of the accident, followed by a factual report, and finally, a probable cause determination.
Contact Ramos Law
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those lost in this tragic accident. As pilots, we can honor their memory by learning from this incident and recommitting ourselves to the highest standards of safety and preparation.
Note: All reported details are preliminary and based on witness reports or publicly available information. Official findings will be determined by the NTSB.
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