Former New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers tight end Russ Francis, aged 70, unfortunately lost his life in a plane crash in Lake Placid, New York.
As the Lake Placid News reported, Francis and his colleague, Richard McSpadden, vice president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, departed from Lake Placid Airport in a Cessna 177 Cardinal on Sunday afternoon. However, shortly after takeoff, the aircraft ran into a condemning issue, resulting in a crash at the runway’s end at 4:09 p.m.
“The airplane attempted to return to the airport but failed to make the runway,” the AOPA said. “Both occupants lost their lives.”
Russ Francis: A Football Journey and Aviation Passion
According to the Lake Placid News, Russ Francis had recently attained the Lake Placid Airways scenic tour business. Francis had a deep passion for flying and had dreamt of becoming a pilot since his early years. It remains unknown whether he was the pilot of the plane during the crash or if Richard McSpadden was at the controls.
Francis left an outstanding mark in his NFL career spanning 13 seasons, starting in 1975 when the New England Patriots chose him as the 16th overall pick. His influence was felt straight away; by 1976, he had gained the first of his three Pro Bowl selections.
Although he was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 1980, Francis decided to retire from football and change over to a broadcasting career.
However, Francis couldn’t endure the pull of football for long. Just one year later, he made a comeback in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers, a decision that would prove significant for the franchise’s future. In 1984, Francis played an important role in the 49ers’ Super Bowl XIX victory.
Russ Francis continued to be a part of the San Francisco team until they renounced him during the 1987 season. Eventually, he made a return to the New England Patriots, where he stayed until his retirement in 1989.
Patriots Owner Robert Kraft Offers Condolences for Russ Francis
“On behalf of the entire New England Patriots organization, we extend our sincerest sympathies to the family of Russ Francis, who tragically passed away yesterday.”
Patriots owner Robert Kraft said in a statement. “Russ was a fan favorite throughout his playing career. He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even bigger personality off it. He knew no boundaries, pushed the limits, and lived his life to the fullest. Our thoughts are with Russ’s family, friends, teammates, and the many Patriots fans who mourn his loss.”
