One person died and another was seriously injured in a small plane crash in Everglades City, Florida on Sunday, February 15. The accident involving a 1981 Cessna A185F occurred in the afternoon, and authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The deceased, Ryan Cody, 45, was a respected community member and business manager at St. Finbarr Catholic Church in Naples.
What happened:
According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the crash occurred around 12:45 p.m. when the plane taking off from Marco Island Executive Airport overturned and partially submerged in water. There were two people on board: the pilot, 65-year-old William Goodrich, and passenger Cody.
A witness found the plane “in the middle of Everglades National Park”, but when emergency responders arrived, it was clear that Cody had not survived the crash. Responding officers found Cody without a pulse and attempted life-saving measures, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. The pilot, Goodrich, was rescued and later hospitalized with serious injuries.
The crash site was challenging for rescue workers, as the tide pushed away bystanders as they tried to help, making access to the wreckage difficult.
Remembering Ryan Cody:
Ryan Cody was well known in the Naples community for his deep faith and dedication to his work at St. Finbarr Catholic Church. He worked as a full-time business manager and volunteered in the church’s youth program. Colleen Grady, the church’s director of religious education, remembered Cody as “an example to the world.”
“He was always talking about God and his spiritual life,” Grady shared. “He knew heaven was his home.” She recalled a conversation where Cody wondered if God would want him now, joking that he was “too young” to go.
A vigil was held in Cody’s honor at St. Finbarr’s Catholic Church on February 19, where the community gathered to remember his life and legacy. Friends and colleagues described him as a man of great integrity and warmth who inspired others with his faith.
Ongoing investigation:
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the FAA and other authorities. Although the circumstances of the accident are still unclear, the focus is now on understanding what led to the tragic loss of life. Investigators are examining all aspects of the flight, which continued for about 38 minutes before the plane went down.
looking ahead:
As the investigation unfolds, the community is mourning the passing of Ryan Cody, a man who touched the lives of many through his kindness, faith and dedication to others. His passing leaves a void in the Naples community, but his legacy will live on through the lives he inspired.