The Marshall University football team plane crashed in 1970.
The Tragic Event
On November 14, 1970, a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of 75 individuals, including members of the Marshall University Thundering Herd football team. The team was returning from a game against East Carolina University when the aircraft, a Southern Airways Flight 932, crashed just short of the Tri-State Airport near Huntington, West Virginia.
Details of the Crash
The accident occurred at 7:36 PM, resulting in no survivors. This catastrophic event is one of the deadliest aviation accidents in U.S. sports history and left an indelible mark on Marshall University and the entire community of Huntington.
Here's a breakdown of those on board:
| Category | Number of Individuals |
|---|---|
| Marshall Football Team Members | 37 |
| Coaching Staff | 8 |
| Boosters | 25 |
| Pilots | 2 |
| Flight Attendants | 2 |
| Charter Coordinator | 1 |
| Total Lives Lost | 75 |
Impact and Legacy
The loss of the majority of the Marshall football team, along with coaches, boosters, and flight crew, was a profound tragedy that reverberated nationally. The university faced the immense challenge of rebuilding its football program from scratch. The determination to overcome this adversity and honor those lost became a defining characteristic of Marshall University's spirit.
The resilience shown in the aftermath of this disaster has been a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and rebuild. The story of the 1970 plane crash and Marshall's subsequent recovery has been documented in various forms, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community bonds. More information on this significant event can be found by researching the details of the incident.
