The aviation community at Sutter County Airport is left reeling after the sudden loss of one of their own in a tragic incident Thursday morning.

Authorities responded to the airport just after 7 a.m. after reports of an incident involving a light single engine aircraft. The pilot, 68-year old Gerald Binse was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to a press release by Sutter County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Sierra Pedley. Binse was the sole occupant of the aircraft.

“Sheriff Brandon Barnes and the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office extends our deepest condolences to the Binse family, friends, and the aviation community during this difficult time,” the release said.

Authorities identified the aircraft as a Van’s RV-4 based at Sutter County Airport. It was not immediately clear if Binse was taking off or landing when the RV-4 reportedly departed the northern end of runway 17/35 and went through a fence.

The Sutter County Sheriff’s Office had 2nd Street closed during the investigation, a news release said. Airport authorities closed the runway on Thursday and issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to avoid the airport. The runway was reopened Thursday night, according to authorities.

Sutter County Airport Operations Manager Darryl Dunn said Binse was involved in the airport community as a volunteer. 

“When you are this deeply entrenched in the aviation community, you can expect this type of event, but it is still just as shocking and heartbreaking when it occurs,” Dunn said. “Just because you could expect something like this could happen, it doesn’t make it any easier. You are talking with your friend and they’re fine. A few days on they’re gone. It’s shocking, it’s tragic and it hurts. I lost a friend today. Nothing prepares you.”

The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 1593 based at Sutter County Airport sent a statement expressing condolences at the loss of one of their members.

“With heavy hearts, we are sad to announce the passing of chapter member Jerry Binse this morning in an aircraft mishap at Sutter County Airport,” the statement said. “Jerry was a tremendous member of the O52 and Chapter 1593 communities who volunteered his time helping with chapter activities and driving the mowing tractor at Sutter County Airport. Jerry will be remembered for his easy smile, cheerful demeanor, and giving heart. He will be dearly missed.”

EDIT: An earlier version of this story stated the family was present at the time of the incident. Wingman later learned the family was with authorities at the airport after the incident.