Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany experienced a close call when his small plane lost power, requiring an emergency landing in Lake Wausau on a Saturday night. Both Tiffany and the pilot sustained only minor injuries.
Tiffany explained that the four-seat Bonanza aircraft was approaching Wausau Downtown Airport when it lost power. This occurred following Tiffany’s appearance at the La Crosse County Lincoln Day Dinner. ‘The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau,’ Tiffany shared on social media.
The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau.
After the water impact, Tiffany and the pilot promptly contacted emergency services. However, the plane started to submerge before rescue teams could arrive. ‘As the plane began to submerge, we exited the aircraft and swam to a shallow area, waiting for emergency responders to reach us by boat,’ Tiffany reported.
Both individuals were rescued from the lake and taken to Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Tiffany mentioned his gratitude towards the pilot and first responders for their swift actions. ‘They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care,’ Tiffany said. His wife, Chris, joined him at the hospital after the incident.
‘God was watching over us tonight,’ Tiffany expressed. ‘I’m incredibly grateful to be here in the hospital with my wife, Chris, by my side. An experience like this reminds you just how precious life is.’
Social media saw an outpouring of support and relief from many well-wishers. ‘My god! What an ordeal. Very grateful everyone is safe,’ one person commented. ‘Very glad you are okay, Congressman Tiffany,’ another remarked. ‘Prayers to you and everyone aboard that flight!’ someone else added.
Tiffany serves as the representative for Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District and is the Republican candidate for the state’s upcoming gubernatorial election. The cause of the power failure during the flight is currently under investigation.