On Monday, October 25, 1999, Payne Stewart boarded a Learjet 35 operated by SunJet Aviation. The aircraft took off from Orlando International Airport, Florida, at 9:19 am Florida time, heading towards Dallas.
At approximately 12:13 pm Central Time, the plane crashed in a remote area of Mina, South Dakota, on Jon Hoffman’s cattle farm.
The crash
The Learjet 35, flying at an altitude of 39,000 feet, lost contact with air traffic controllers. The plane eventually entered a nosedive and began a corkscrewing descent, resulting in a devastating impact. The crash left a 40-foot-long, 20-foot-wide, and 8-foot-deep crater but did not cause an explosion as the plane had run out of fuel.
All six people on board, including Payne Stewart, perished.
Jon Hoffman, who was hosting a pheasant hunting expedition nearby, noticed two F-16 jets circling the area after the crash. Initially, Hoffman did not realize the magnitude of what had happened until his wife informed him about the news coverage. The lack of an explosion added to the confusion and disbelief initially surrounding the incident.
What caused it?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) conducted a thorough investigation into the crash. The probable cause was determined to be the incapacitation of the crew due to hypoxia—a condition caused by insufficient oxygen.
The aircraft had lost cabin pressure, rendering everyone on board unconscious. Maintenance work related to the cabin pressure system was found inconclusive in preventing the accident.
The Aftermath
The crash site was cleaned up and turned into a memorial with a marker and a Bible verse from Psalms 40:2, commemorating the lives lost. The public reaction was one of widespread grief, especially among PGA Tour members.
Initial reports mistakenly suggested that other famous golfers like Tiger Woods were involved, adding to the chaos and sorrow of the event.
Early life and career of Payne Stewart
Payne Stewart was born on January 30, 1957, in Springfield, Missouri. He played collegiate golf at Southern Methodist University and turned professional in 1979. By 1982, Stewart had secured his PGA Tour card and began making a name for himself in the golfing world.
Professional achievements
Stewart won 11 PGA Tour titles during his career, including three major championships:
- the 1989 US PGA Championship,
- the 1991 US Open,
- the 1999 US Open.
His skill, flamboyant attire, and charismatic personality made him a favorite among golf fans.
Personal life
In 1981, Stewart married Tracey Ferguson, and they had two children together. He was known for his fun-loving nature, family-oriented values, and distinctive style on the golf course.
Payne Stewart’s legacy extends beyond his golfing achievements. He is remembered for his sportsmanship, dedication to the game, and the joy he brought to fans and fellow golfers alike. The memorial at the crash site serves as a poignant reminder of his impact on the sport and those who knew him.
Reflections from the golf community
Golfers who played alongside Stewart often share stories of his kindness, humor, and competitive spirit. These personal anecdotes highlight the deep sense of loss felt within the golfing community and emphasize Stewart’s positive influence both on and off the course.
The tragic crash that took Stewart’s life also underscored the critical importance of safety in aviation. It prompted discussions about the need for stringent maintenance protocols and the implementation of better safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Check out our article on golf carts.
In summary
Payne Stewart’s death in a plane crash on October 25, 1999, was a heartbreaking moment for the golf world. Losing him so suddenly left a huge gap in the sport. But Stewart’s legacy is still alive, thanks to his incredible achievements, unforgettable personality, and the influence he had on fans and other golfers.
