Alamogordo, NM — Story updated 4pm with the NM State police now confirming both occupants of the plane died as a part of the crash.

Thus a tragic update this holiday has emerged in the search for a missing plane near Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport: New Mexico State Police (NMSP) have confirmed that both occupants are dead following the crash of the private aircraft.

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 individuals until notification to family and further investigation as to the cause.

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. Condolences to those involved.

4pm update:

The New Mexico State Police released the following information this evening.

A coordinated search effort was conducted with the assistance of the Otero County Sheriff’s Office, Alamogordo Police Department, Otero County Emergency Services, Alamogordo Fire Department, the Lincoln National Forest Service, and New Mexico Search and Rescue. On November 27, 2025, at approximately 10:17 a.m., the aircraft was located.

The aircraft was found completely burned, and two occupants were confirmed deceased at the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board will be handling the investigation. The identities of the occupants will not be released until next of kin has been notified.

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