Thocker was performing with his friend and long-time flying partner Ken Rieder of Cincinnati when the crash happened.
>>VIDEO: Aerobatic pilots fly homebuilt planes at Dayton Air Show
No one on the ground was injured and the FAA, NTSB and state police are investigating the cause.
Thocker and Rieder had been flying together under the name of Redline Airshows for more than 12 years, according to the Redline Airshows website. They were performing their signature night flight that included trails of fireworks shooting from the planes’ wings.
>>Airshow: Redline Flight Team |
>>Airshow: More Redline Aerobatic team
The team performed at the Dayton Air Show June 23 and 24.
Thocker’s homebuilt plan he flew Friday was registered with the FAA on Oct. 2, 2017 and is listed as amateur-built and experimental. He had built 10 custom planes, according to WCPO.
Those who knew Thocker are expressing their condolences on social media.
About the Author