Aircraft Emergency

January 1, 2005

At 4:48 p.m., the pilot of this 1972 Cessna 172L walked away without injury after crashing just outside the D.C. Airport fence.  The pilot stated that after taking off, the engine felt rough at approximately 200 ft.  He proceeded to turn the plane around to land when the engine cut out and after hitting a tree, spun around and crashed just outside the northern fence of the airport. The airport crash truck along with New Hackensack Fire Department and Town of Wappinger Ambulance were dispatched to the scene.  It was also reported that the plane was leaking fuel.  The fire department handled the fuel spill while being protected by Airport 92-11.  Assistance was also requested from NYS DEC and the Dutchess County Hazmat Team.  All emergency equipment was back in service by 7:00 p.m.  The pilot refused medical treatment.  The scene was investigated by the NYS Police and FAA.