The Flagler County community is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Thomas Russell Harvey, a 75-year-old pilot who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on the evening of Friday, February 14, 2025. Harvey, a resident of Jacksonville, was confirmed dead following the crash that occurred near the Flagler/Volusia county line. The incident has left not only his friends, family, and coworkers in mourning but has also shaken the local aviation community, where Harvey was well-known and respected.
The plane crash occurred late on Friday evening, with emergency responders rushing to the scene after reports of the crash were received. Despite the efforts to save him, Thomas Russell Harvey was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. The loss of Harvey, a seasoned pilot, has left a deep void in both his family and the community he served. His next of kin have been notified, and condolences have been pouring in from across the region. Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly expressed his deepest sympathies, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Harvey during this incredibly difficult time.”
As investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continue to work to determine the cause of the crash, the community remains in shock. The NTSB has dispatched a team to the crash site, and their investigation will focus on uncovering any mechanical or environmental factors that may have contributed to this devastating incident. The details surrounding the crash are still being analyzed, and the public is urged to wait for official findings from the NTSB.
Thomas Russell Harvey had been with Skydive Palatka, a skydiving company based in nearby Palatka, Florida. According to company officials, Harvey had been an integral part of their team for many years. He was known for his incredible energy, experience, and passion for flying. His coworkers at Skydive Palatka spoke fondly of him during a press conference held on Saturday evening. They shared how Harvey’s energy and enthusiasm for aviation were contagious, making him a beloved figure at the company.
During the press conference, his colleagues recounted the moment they realized something was wrong during Harvey’s flight. As they detailed, Harvey had been in the air when they noticed irregularities in the flight pattern. Concern quickly mounted as they tried to reach him, and it soon became clear that something was seriously wrong. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts to remain calm and work to help, the situation turned tragic. The loss of a close friend and colleague was devastating for those who knew him best.
For many in the Flagler and Volusia County areas, Thomas Russell Harvey was more than just a pilot. He was a mentor, a friend, and a respected member of the skydiving community. Harvey had earned a reputation for his skills, professionalism, and love for the craft. Over the years, he built a strong connection with fellow skydivers and aviation enthusiasts, and his passing has left many struggling to comprehend the enormity of the loss.
Skydive Palatka’s management has expressed their grief and stated that they would work closely with investigators to determine the cause of the crash. The company has vowed to support Harvey’s family and provide assistance to all those affected by the tragedy. In addition to the emotional loss, the accident raises questions about safety in the aviation industry, particularly with smaller aircraft involved in recreational flights. As the investigation continues, many in the aviation community are looking for answers regarding the cause of the crash and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future.
The community of Flagler County, along with the broader skydiving and aviation communities, is coming together to honor the life of Thomas Russell Harvey. Friends and colleagues are sharing stories of their experiences with Harvey, remembering his sense of humor, his generosity, and his passion for the skies. Tributes are being shared on social media, where people are expressing their condolences and fond memories of Harvey’s lasting impact. As the community mourns, many are also reflecting on Harvey’s incredible legacy in aviation and the mark he left on those who knew him.
This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the risks that come with the joys of flying, particularly in smaller aircraft. However, it is also a testament to the bravery and dedication of those who take to the skies, whether for recreation or as part of their profession. Harvey’s life and work will continue to inspire many in the aviation and skydiving communities, and his contributions will not be forgotten.
As the NTSB investigation moves forward, there is a growing sense of hope that this tragedy can lead to meaningful discussions about aviation safety and the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards for all types of flying. In the meantime, Thomas Russell Harvey’s memory lives on in the stories, the lessons learned, and the many lives he touched. His love for aviation, his unwavering commitment to his work, and his infectious enthusiasm for life will always be remembered by those who knew him.
The Flagler County community continues to mourn his loss, but in the days and weeks ahead, they will also celebrate the life of a man who brought joy, laughter, and inspiration to so many. As they continue to process this heartbreaking event, they find comfort in knowing that Harvey’s legacy will forever be part of their community’s history. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time, and we stand with them as they honor his memory and the life he lived.
