School Board President Killed In West Caln Plane Crash: Superintendent

WEST CALN TOWNSHIP —A Chester County school board president was killed when a small plane crashed on Thursday afternoon in a residential neighborhood in West Caln Township.

Sam Ganow, president of the Octorara Area School Board, was the pilot of the plane that crashed near a farmhouse in the 500 block of Old Wilmington Road.

The twin-engine Gulfstream American GA-7 crashed at 1:30 p.m. The plane left Chester County Airport in Coatesville. The planned destination was not provided.

"It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share with you the news of the tragic passing of our School Board President, Mr. Sam Ganow," Dr. Steven Leever, superintendent, wrote in a message on the district's website.

"Earlier today, we learned that Sam lost his life in a plane crash in Coatesville, leaving us with a deep sense of loss and grief," the superintendent continued. "His commitment to education and his tireless efforts to enhance the educational experience for our students made a lasting impact on our school district."

The superintendent said Ganow served on the school board for 26 years.

The school district covers Parkesburg, Atglen, and Christiana boroughs and West Sadsbury, Sadsbury, West Fallowfield, Highland, and Londonderry townships.

Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board were at the scene with West Caln police.

The FAA will provide a preliminary report usually the next business day. The National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash.

The superintendent wrote in the message that details regarding memorial services and ways to express condolences will be shared with the community in the coming days.

In the meantime, counselors and support services will be available at schools for students and staff who may need assistance in coping with this loss, the superintendent said.