2 dead after small plane crashes on Whidbey Island

WHIDBEY ISLAND, Wash. - Two people died in a small plane crash on Whidbey Island Wednesday, authorities said. 

An FAA spokesperson said a Cessna 177 Cardinal crashed one mile north of Whidbey Air Park in Langley. A person called 911 around noon, reported the aircraft in the area having issues landing. 

Island County Sheriff's Sgt. Laura Price said the two people on board the plane died. Responders believe they were the only people on board the aircraft. Price said the plane belongs to a flying club in Seattle. 

County officials said the plane wasn't trying to land or take off, and possibly passing through the area.

Jon Gabelein with South Whidbey Fire said first responders had a hard time accessing the crash site, ending up in a wooded area not far from the airfield. 

There were no flames visible after the crash. Gabelein also said they initially didn't find anyone who witnessed the crash. 

Local authorities will continue investigating overnight. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is expected to arrive at the crash site to investigate as early as Thursday morning. 

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.