On Sunday afternoon, January 14, 2024, a catastrophic plane crash in Parker County, Texas, claimed three lives.
The deceased were identified as Dr. Heath Smith, 40, a renowned bariatric surgeon and the vice president of the Paradise Independent School District Board, and his two minor children, Noah, aged six, and Wyatt, eight.
The accident occurred around 1:15 p.m. on Sunday when they were returning from a hunting trip. The ill-fated twin-engine Cessna 310 aircraft was flying from Dimmit County Airport in Carrizo Springs, Texas to Bridgeport Municipal Airport, situated northwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Reports indicate that the aircraft failed to reach its destination and instead, was discovered in a pasture about 10 miles southwest of its intended endpoint.
Will Brewer, the superintendent of the Paradise Independent School District, spotlighted Dr. Smith’s substantial contributions to the community.
Brewer expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing Dr. Smith as an integral part of the school district, beloved for his dedication to the district and his significant role as an alumnus, parent, and board member.
Smith, a native of Paradise, Texas, was an alumnus of Texas A&M University at College Station.
He obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree and completed his residency at Virginia Tech/Carilion Clinic in Roanoke, Virginia.
Smith specialized in bariatric surgery, colonoscopy, colorectal surgery, and surgical oncology. He was affiliated with My Bariatric Solutions, where his biography highlights his dedication to his profession. He leaves behind a wife and 11-year-old son.
The Texas Department of Public Safety, along with other agencies, is currently investigating the crash to establish its cause. The exact circumstances that led to the accident remain yet to be determined.