Airplane propeller severs SWFL woman’s arm and foot

Writer: Derrick Shaw
Published: Updated:
Ambulance illustration
Credit: MGN

A private airplane severed a Fort Myers woman’s arm and foot Saturday night at the Key West International Airport.

According to an update by Florida Highway Patrol, the lead investigating agency, Rebecca L. Gray was the victim of an incident when she exited a private plan she and her husband and pilot, Walter V. Gary, had rented in Fort Myers.

FHP says Rebecca exited a small Cessna while the engine was on and the propeller was spinning to to remove chock blocks that were keeping the plane’s wheels in place, as the married couple prepared for takeoff.

While Rebecca removed the chock blocks from the plane’s front wheel, the right side of the spinning propeller struck Rebecca’s right side of her body, causing severe injuries.

Rebecca was taken to Lower Keys Medical Center and flown out to Ryder Trauma in stable condition.

According to FHP’s updated report, Rebecca and Walter are both residents of Fort Myers.

CORRECTION: Authorities originally reported a Naples woman was the victim of an aircraft incident that caused physical injuries, and has since been updated to reflect current reports from investigating law enforcement agencies. 

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