Couple successfully lands plane in Central field after engine failure

Earl M. Douglas and his wife, Virginia, were flying from Baton Rouge to New Orleans to visit family when they experienced engine failure. Douglas was able to safely pilot the small aircraft into a field on Carey Road in Central.

The Douglases were unharmed during the tumultuous descent.

IBTS Program Director David Ratcliff witnessed the event as he was down the street inspecting a drainage ditch. Ratcliff arrived on scene with emergency responders.

Mayor Shelton and Ratcliff took the Douglases to lunch while they waited on family from New Orleans.

"We are thankful that our new friends from St. Augustine were able to find a safe landing spot in Central. It was a joy to meet them and share our hospitality. It appears as though Central has their own Captain Sully," said Mayor Shelton.