Some of the skydivers killed in Missouri plane crash were experienced jumpers

A plane carrying 11 skydivers and a pilot crashed moments after taking off from a Missouri airfield, killing everyone on board. Federal investigators are now at the crash site to determine the cause of the Sunday tragedy.

Among those killed was Jen Sharp, the U.S. Parachute Association's technology director. Friends and colleagues remembered her as a "remarkable force" in the skydiving community. Sharp, who had made 6,800 jumps since 1989, was a respected instructor and author of educational materials. Her adventurous spirit was evident in past stunts, including jumping into Denver's Coors Field dressed as the queen of England and participating in the Everest Skydive.

“

Jen was a remarkable force whose passion for the skies was matched only by her dedication to the people in our sport.

Kevin Payne, who had jumped with seven of the victims, described them as a "sky family." He emphasized the joy, peace, and freedom inherent in skydiving, stating, "It's not about the adrenaline. It's about really flying together with your family in that brief, exquisite instant that people who live their lives on the ground will never understand."

Authorities have not yet released the names of all victims. The National Transportation Safety Board expects to issue a preliminary report in about a month. Weather was not believed to be a factor. Witnesses reported the plane was about 100 feet off the ground when it made an abrupt left turn before crashing. It appeared to be losing power, and the pilot may have been attempting to reach a highway for landing when the plane stalled and went down nose first, according to the acting airport manager. The aircraft was operated by Skydive Kansas City.

“

There is a joy and peace and freedom to what we do. That's what most people never understand. It's not about the adrenaline. It's about really flying together with your family in that brief, exquisite instant that people who live their lives on the ground will never understand.