Remembering Russ Francis: NFL Legend and Lake Placid Tragedy
On September 30, 2023, Russ Francis, a former NFL player and Super Bowl champion, tragically lost his life in a plane crash near Lake Placid, New York, at the age of 70.
Russ Francis was piloting a Cessna 177 Cardinal, accompanied by Richard McSpadden, the senior vice president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, when the plane crashed shortly after taking off from Lake Placid Airport. Regrettably, both Francis and McSpadden lost their lives in the crash.
The cause of this tragic incident remains under investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has reported that there is no indication of foul play.
Russ Francis’s NFL Career:
Russ Francis was born in Seattle, Washington, in 1952. He played college football at the University of Oregon, where he earned the distinction of being a two-time All-American.
In the 1975 NFL Draft, Francis was selected in the first round by the New England Patriots. He went on to play 11 seasons with the Patriots and was instrumental in their Super Bowl appearance in 1986.
During his NFL career, Russ Francis achieved a remarkable record, earning three Pro Bowl selections and receiving recognition as a member of the NFL’s All-Pro team in 1985.
Super Bowl Triumph:
In 1982, Francis was traded to the San Francisco 49ers, where he played a pivotal role in helping the team secure victory in the Super Bowl in 1985.
Francis’s versatility on the field made him a valuable asset to the 49ers’ offense, as he was a dependable target for quarterback Joe Montana and a formidable threat in the running game.
Life After the NFL:
Following his retirement from the NFL in 1988, Russ Francis pursued a career as a sports broadcaster and businessman. Additionally, he owned and operated Lake Placid Airways, a scenic tour business.
Tragedy Strikes in Lake Placid:
The day of the plane crash was characterized by clear skies and bright sunshine in Lake Placid.
Russ Francis and Richard McSpadden were en route to meet with the mayor of Lake Placid to discuss a new scenic tour route that Francis had developed.
Tragically, the plane crashed into a wooded area near the Lake Placid Airport only minutes after takeoff. Witnesses reported that the aircraft seemed to experience engine trouble before the crash. The NTSB continues to investigate the exact cause of the incident.
Aftermath and Legacy:
The untimely passing of Russ Francis deeply affected the Lake Placid community, where he was a well-known and highly respected figure.
In addition to his local impact, Russ Francis’s death was a significant loss to the broader NFL community. He was not only a popular player but also a Super Bowl champion.
The NTSB is actively conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the plane crash and has committed to releasing a preliminary report within the next two weeks.
In conclusion, the loss of Russ Francis is a heartbreaking tragedy. He was not only a gifted athlete but also a successful entrepreneur and a beloved member of the Lake Placid community. As investigations continue, the void left by his passing will be felt by both Lake Placid and the NFL community.