Local Builder Identified as Victim killed in Fatal Oakbourne Country Club Plane Crash

The Lafayette Fire Department has identified the victim of Thursday’s plane crash at Oakbourne Country Club as Greg Manuel, a prominent local builder and co-owner of Manuel Builders. Manuel, 73, was a respected figure in the construction industry, having significantly expanded the company his father founded in 1963 into one of the region’s largest residential and commercial construction firms, with operations extending into Texas.

Manuel’s journey in the construction business began in the 1970s after he served as a helicopter pilot for the U.S. Military during the Vietnam War. He brought his military discipline and passion for building into the family business, playing a pivotal role in its growth and success over the decades. His death marks a profound loss for the local community and the construction industry, where he was well-regarded for his contributions and leadership.

The tragic incident occurred late Thursday morning when Manuel’s plane crashed onto the Oakbourne golf course, just a few hundred feet from the runway of Lafayette Regional Airport. The crash site, near the greens and fairways of Oakbourne, drew immediate response from emergency services. Manuel was pronounced dead on arrival, according to officials.

The Acadiana Advocate reported that Manuel was piloting the aircraft during the fiery crash and was the sole occupant on board. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, with officials from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) already on the scene to conduct preliminary assessments. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to join the investigation, providing additional resources to determine the cause of the crash.

Authorities have not yet released further details about what may have led to the crash. The investigation will likely focus on examining the aircraft’s mechanical systems, weather conditions at the time of takeoff, and any potential pilot-related factors. It will be some time before definitive answers are available, as thorough investigations by the FAA and NTSB typically involve comprehensive analysis of all possible contributing elements.

The loss of Greg Manuel has left a void in the Lafayette community, particularly among those who knew him personally and professionally. As the investigation continues, the community is left mourning a leader whose legacy in construction and commitment to his hometown will be remembered for years to come. Further updates from the investigation are expected in the coming days as authorities work to uncover the details of this tragic event.