A North Dakota state representative died Saturday when a small aircraft crashed and erupted in flames moments after takeoff from a Minneapolis-area airport, claiming two lives in a tragedy that has shaken the state’s political community.

Fatal Crash Claims Democratic Representative

Rep. Liz Conmy, a Democrat representing Fargo, perished when the Beech F33A aircraft went down in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, near Crystal Airport at 11:51 a.m. Saturday. The plane caught fire immediately upon impact in a park area. Brooklyn Park Fire Department crews arrived within minutes and extinguished the blaze, but emergency responders found no survivors. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed two people were aboard, though authorities have not publicly identified the pilot.

Residents near the crash site reported hearing a massive explosion. Ashley Capp, who lives across the street, told local media she heard a loud boom while her daughter ate breakfast. Another neighbor, Kim Clark, witnessed a huge flame erupt across the street as multiple residents called 911. The crash marks the second deadly plane accident in Brooklyn Park in just over a year.

Bipartisan Tributes Honor Lawmaker’s Service

Republican Gov. Kelly Armstrong directed all United States and North Dakota flags to fly at half-staff from dawn to dusk on the day of Conmy’s interment. Armstrong praised Conmy’s dedication to serving her state and community, highlighting her work on the Human Trafficking Commission and her focus on education, habitat preservation, and immigration issues. Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden, also a Republican, called Conmy a dear friend and former colleague, commending her integrity and compassion on the Education and Judiciary committees.

State Sen. Tim Mathern, who described Conmy as a friend and former running mate, said she brought a zest for life and strong work ethic that earned respect from both Democrats and Republicans. The North Dakota Democratic-Nonpartisan League Party expressed complete heartbreak over the loss, noting Conmy championed public education, environmental protection, and government transparency throughout her legislative career.

Investigation Underway

Federal aviation officials have launched an investigation into what caused the aircraft to crash shortly after departing Crystal Airport. The FAA will examine the circumstances surrounding the takeoff and subsequent crash. Brooklyn Park Police Inspector Matt Rabe confirmed officers responded to the emergency call and are cooperating with federal investigators to determine what went wrong during the fatal flight.