Teen Driver Breaches Fence, Hits PlaneSense PC-12 at KPSM

A driver fleeing a New Hampshire State Police trooper crashed through a perimeter fence at Portsmouth International Airport (KPSM) in New Hampshire on Saturday night, striking a Kubota tractor and a parked PlaneSense Pilatus PC-12 on the airport’s ramp before coming to a stop. No one was injured. The aircraft—operated by PlaneSense—was substantially damaged, with photos showing the left wing severed.

State police said a trooper attempted to stop a black 2008 Ford Mustang on Durham Street in Portsmouth at 8:09 p.m. while searching for a vehicle connected to crimes reported in other jurisdictions. The Mustang’s driver fled after spotting the trooper, crossing onto airport property without the vehicle’s headlights on before hitting the tractor and the airplane.

Troopers took the driver into custody at the scene. He was identified as Wyatt Seely, 17, of Rochester, New Hampshire, and was taken to a hospital as a precaution.

In a statement to AIN, PlaneSense confirmed that the incident happened at the company’s national headquarters, where the aircraft was waiting for routine maintenance. “While the aircraft sustained significant damage, we are grateful that no PlaneSense employees were injured. No flights or operations were impacted,” it said.

“We are especially grateful for the actions of the PlaneSense team members working that evening, who responded immediately to a rapidly unfolding situation. Before emergency responders arrived, they provided initial assistance to the driver, helped stabilize the scene, and minimized the environmental impact. Their professionalism and composure reflected the preparedness and commitment of our team.”

According to state police, Seely was charged with misdemeanor counts of “aggravated driving while intoxicated (DWI), DWI, disobeying a police officer, conduct after an accident,” and a violation-level offense of reckless driving. He is scheduled for arraignment in Portsmouth District Court on September 9.

State police were assisted at the scene by the Portsmouth police and fire departments, the Newington Police Department, and Pease Fire and Emergency Services. PlaneSense said it is working with these authorities and with airport staff as the investigation continues.