PEWAUKEE, Wis. — Three adults and dozens of dogs on board a twin-engine plane are OK after an emergency landing on a golf course in Waukesha County Tuesday, according to sheriff’s officials.
The plane was on its way to Waukesha County Airport when it was forced to land at Western Lakes Golf Club in Pewaukee.
As it went down on the back green of the golf course, the aircraft sustained significant damage and came to rest on the 3rd hole of the golf course, according to sheriff's officials. Lake Country Fire and Rescue Assistant Chief Matthew Haerter said people on the plane suffered injuries, but they were not life threatening.
Fifty-three dogs were being transported from New Orleans, La. to shelters in Wisconsin. The Humane Animal Welfare Society of Waukesha said they were waiting for their arrival at the Waukesha airport. When the plane made the emergency landing, they went to the golf course to retrieve the animals.
Authorities said the dogs were not seriously injured. All animals were triaged by staff veterinarians. HAWS of Waukesha County said they will remain under observation to ensure there are no other medical concerns.
Haerter said the plane struck a grove of trees after it emergency landed and lost its wings. He said about 300 gallons of fuel was spilled. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources was called to the scene.
An investigation is ongoing into why the plane ended up on the golf course.
HAWS of Waukesha County said the dogs will be available for adoption when they are medically cleared in the coming days. They also said members of the public can help with the costs of medical care and do so at https://hawspets.givecloud.co/give or by dropping it off at the shelter on Northview Road.
You can also donate towels, blankets, plastic animal crates, and enrichment toys and treats to HAWS. You can find their full wish list here.
This is a developing story. Check back here for updates.