Former NCAA woman of the year, 5 other family members killed in upstate New York plane crash
The tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of six individuals, including Karenna Groff, the 2022 recipient of the prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year award, has left a void in the hearts of many. Groff, a former soccer player at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, was on her way to a bright future as a medical student at NYU Langone when the accident occurred.
The crash, which took place near the Columbia County Airport in upstate New York, also claimed the lives of Groff’s partner, James Santoro, and four other family members. The victims, including Groff’s parents, Joy Saini and Michael Groff, her brother, Jared Groff, and his partner, Alexia Couyutas Duarte, were all accomplished individuals in their respective fields.
Karenna Groff was a standout soccer player at MIT, where she served as captain of the Division III team. She was highly regarded for her skills on the field, finishing her career as the second all-time leading scorer at the school. Groff’s accomplishments on the soccer field were matched by her academic pursuits, as she was training to follow in her parents’ footsteps as a neurosurgeon.
The Groff family’s statement highlighted the love and brilliance of each of the victims, emphasizing the profound loss felt by their loved ones. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of their beloved family members.
The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the crash, with initial reports indicating deteriorating weather conditions near the crash site. The pilot, who was also the owner of the plane, had recently completed additional training and held a valid pilot’s license.
As the investigation continues, the NTSB will work to gather all perishable material from the crash site to determine the cause of the tragedy. The legacy of Karenna Groff and the other victims will be remembered by all who knew them, leaving a lasting impact on the communities they touched.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with loved ones. The memories of Karenna Groff and her family will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
