On August 23, 2021, shortly after 11 am the Bates County Coroner’s Office was advised by Sheriff Anderson deputies were searching for a downed aircraft. Shortly afterward it was advised the craft had been located and a decedent was located and Coroner Mullinax responded to a location northwest of Adrian.
At this time he has spoken with family members and made certain they’ve been allowed enough time to speak to family and close friends. The Coroner’s Office appreciates everyone’s respectful cooperation during that time.
The decedent was the pilot and sole occupant of the aircraft and is identified as Daniel L. Smith of Adrian, Missouri.
An autopsy has been scheduled in cooperation with the multiple agencies investigating. There will be no further details until the investigation is complete.
Greg Mullinax
Bates County Coroner
