A tragic plane crash on the evening of March 17, 2025, has claimed the lives of three individuals near La Punt Chamues-ch in Switzerland. The single-engine propeller aircraft, an Extra EA-400, took off from Samedan airfield at 17:20, heading for Roskilde, Denmark, but crashed just two minutes later, during a difficult maneuver in high altitude. Witnesses reported that the aircraft spiraled before it struck the ground and burst into flames, creating a scene of devastation near residential homes.
Among the casualties were renowned lawyers Line M. and Andreas C., both partners at the esteemed Danish law firm Horten, along with their son. The aircraft was not carrying any additional passengers, making the deaths particularly poignant for the affected families. According to Kasper Haagensen, a colleague who was on an online meeting with Andreas just before the flight, he concluded the meeting at 16:40—just 42 minutes before the tragic accident.
One eyewitness, Simone Greder, vividly described the horrific moment when the plane crashed nearly in front of her home, about 20 meters away from her family's farm shop. “It struck the ground and exploded into flames taller than ten meters,” Greder recounted. “My mother was at the window and couldn’t comprehend what was happening as we heard the roar of the aircraft getting louder and louder.”
The disaster unfolded shortly after the Extra EA-400 left Samedan, a well-known airfield near St. Moritz. Dubbed one of Europe’s highest airfields, Samedan frequently poses challenges for pilots due to its altitude and unpredictable weather conditions. The plane was expected to arrive in Roskilde, situated approximately 30 kilometers west of Copenhagen. The unfortunate event has raised significant concern and speculation regarding the cause of the crash, prompting investigations by Swiss authorities, including the canton of Graubünden’s police and federal investigators.
In Switzerland, small propeller aircraft like the Extra EA-400 are usually known for their agility and performance in various environments, but high-altitude flights have inherent challenges. Witnesses reported hearing a strange noise from the aircraft just before the crash. Another resident, Hans Stroschein from Berlin, expressed concern about the possibility of the plane colliding with electrical wires, which run near the flight path. “The witnesses reported that the aircraft spun around before it hit the ground, which raises questions about what caused its loss of control,” Stroschein remarked.
As investigations continue into the cause of this heartbreaking incident, media coverage from outlets such as Ekstra Bladet and Blick is providing ongoing updates. The law firm Horten expressed deep sorrow over the loss of its valued partners. “We are devastated and speechless at this tragic news,” the firm shared in a statement. “Line and Andreas were integral members of our family for over two decades. Their passing represents a great loss for all of us.”
Line M. was not only a distinguished attorney but also an active leader in Denmark’s sailing community, having served as chairperson of the Danish Sailing Association from 2017 to 2024. Hans Natorp, president of the association, expressed his shock and condolences, stating, “I am deeply shaken. It’s terrible. My thoughts are with the families and those left behind.”
This tragic event is a stark reminder of how quickly life can change and how dangerous aviation can be, particularly in challenging weather and geographic conditions. As the grieving families mourn their losses, questions linger about safety and the steps necessary to prevent such accidents in the future. Authorities are urging anyone with further information about the crash to come forward as they seek to piece together the events leading up to this catastrophic situation.
Authorities have confirmed no one on the ground was injured in the crash, which is a small consolation amid the heavy losses suffered by the families involved. As the investigation progresses, the victims' loved ones await answers and closure regarding this tragedy.
