Alamogordo NM
11-27-2025 1:06pm

Tragic Holiday Fatal Plane Crash Near Alamogordo

Alamogordo, NM — November 27, 2025 A tragic update has emerged in the search for a missing plane near Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport: New Mexico State Police (NMSP) have confirmed that one person is dead following the crash of the private aircraft. The second individual is yet to be found with authorities conducting an extensive search. 

The plane departed Wednesday morning for a short local flight and was expected to return by 1:00 PM, but never arrived. Family members reported on both social media and to authorities the overdue flight, prompting a coordinated search effort involving the Alamogordo Police Department, Otero County Sheriff’s Office, and NMSP Search and Rescue.

Alamogordo City Manager Stephanie Hernandez said the pilot arrived at the airport around 8 a.m. Wednesday. Local pilots reported seeing the plane leave the airport around 11:30 a.m.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provided last known coordinates, and crews began combing rugged terrain near Benson Ridge, close to Cloudcroft. The crash site was located Thursday morning.

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and the condition of the second individual onboard remains unknown.

A social media post by Meride Mercado, sister of one of the missing individuals, had earlier galvanized community concern:

“Urgent request:

My brother is missing in private airplane that went for local flight at 11 am yesterday. He and pilot, future son-in-law, were expected back at 1:00.

Please call local law enforcement if you happen to have any information!!!

And please pray for their safe return.”

The cause of the crash is under investigation. Officials are expected to release further details once next of kin are notified and the site is secured.

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