Douglas County Coroner Identifies Two Victims Killed in Centennial Airport Plane Crash
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (Sept. 10, 2025) – Authorities have released the names of two men who died in a small plane crash near Centennial Airport earlier this month. The Douglas County Coroner’s Office confirmed the victims as Perry “Matt” Feeney, 52, of Arvada, and Lee “Rob” Hill, 64, of Greenwood Village.
The Crash
The fatal crash occurred on September 2, 2025, shortly after takeoff from Centennial Airport, one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country. Witnesses reported seeing the small aircraft struggle to gain altitude before banking sharply and plummeting into an open field just a mile south of the runway.
Emergency crews rushed to the site, but both Feeney and Hill were pronounced dead at the scene. No one else was on board, and no injuries were reported on the ground.
Victims Identified
The coroner’s office formally identified the victims this week following autopsies and coordination with their families.
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Perry “Matt” Feeney, 52, of Arvada – A longtime aviation enthusiast and father of two, Feeney was remembered by friends as passionate about flying and deeply dedicated to his family.
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Lee “Rob” Hill, 64, of Greenwood Village – Hill, a retired businessman and active community volunteer, often shared his love of aircraft with friends and colleagues.
Family members of both men have asked for privacy as they grieve, though loved ones describe them as kindhearted individuals who lived life fully.
Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have suffered mechanical issues shortly after takeoff, though investigators caution that final conclusions could take months.
NTSB investigators are currently analyzing flight data, maintenance records, and weather conditions on the day of the crash. Witnesses have been interviewed, and parts of the wreckage have been taken to a secure facility for further inspection.
Community Response
The accident has shaken Colorado’s close-knit aviation community. Pilots who frequent Centennial Airport say the loss is felt deeply, as both Feeney and Hill were well known in local flying circles.
“It hits hard when something like this happens so close to home,” said one fellow pilot. “We know the risks of flying, but these were good men who loved the skies.”
A makeshift memorial of flowers, photos, and handwritten notes has begun forming near the crash site, with community members stopping to pay their respects.
Looking Ahead
Funeral arrangements for both men are underway, with services expected to take place in the coming days. Friends, family, and fellow aviation enthusiasts are planning a joint remembrance ceremony to honor Feeney and Hill’s shared passion for flight.
As the investigation continues, officials emphasize that Centennial Airport remains fully operational, though the crash serves as a somber reminder of the risks that come with aviation.
