From Hero to Plaintiff: Officer Kevin McLean's Quest for Justice after a Fatal Plane Crash

From Hero to Plaintiff: The Tale of a Former Police Officer and a Fatal Plane Crash

Kevin McLean, a former police officer from Horry County, has taken an unprecedented step. He's suing the owner of a plane and the company that conducted its maintenance, following a tragic incident in May 2021 where he was injured while rendering aid during a fatal plane crash.

The Fateful Day: A Hero's Fall

On May 19, 2021, a Piper PA-31P aircraft, owned by Paul J. Smith and PJS LLC, underwent an annual inspection by Executive HeliJet Charters. However, the maintenance process went awry; the elevator trim tabs were installed upside down and reversed. This oversight led to the plane's catastrophic crash in the Socastee area, claiming the life of the pilot, James Marklin Harper.

McLean, who was in the vicinity, rushed to the scene to offer assistance. His act of bravery, however, left him severely injured when the plane exploded upon his approach. The force knocked him off his feet and sent him flying backward, causing significant harm to his head, neck, and back.

The Lawsuit: A Battle for Justice

The lawsuit, filed against Executive HeliJet Charters, its owner Jeremy Bass, Paul J. Smith, and PJS LLC, alleges negligence and negligent hiring, training, and supervision. It asserts that the defendants failed to comply with Federal Aviation Administration rules for the inspection and maintenance of airplanes, leading to the fatal crash and McLean's injuries.

McLean continues to suffer from the physical and emotional aftermath of the incident. His lawsuit seeks justice and accountability, aiming to hold the responsible parties liable for their actions.

Echoes of the Past: A Hero's Struggle

McLean's journey from a decorated police officer to a plaintiff seeking justice is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between duty and personal safety. His story serves as a stark reminder of the risks that first responders face daily and the importance of stringent safety measures in all industries.

As McLean's case unfolds, it echoes the sentiments of countless others who have found themselves in similar circumstances. It underscores the need for vigilance, accountability, and a commitment to safety in a world where oversights can have devastating consequences.

In the end, McLean's story is more than just a lawsuit. It's a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the relentless pursuit of justice. It's a tale of resilience in the face of adversity and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, hope can prevail.

Kevin McLean, once a police officer from Horry County, now finds himself in the role of a plaintiff. His decision to sue the owner of a plane and the maintenance company following a fatal crash in May 2021 is a bold step towards justice and accountability. The incident, which occurred during a routine maintenance check, resulted in the death of the pilot and severe injuries for McLean.

The lawsuit alleges negligence and negligent hiring, training, and supervision by Executive HeliJet Charters and its owner Jeremy Bass, along with Paul J. Smith and PJS LLC, the registered owner of the ill-fated Piper PA-31P airplane. As McLean continues to grapple with the physical and emotional repercussions of that fateful day, his story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety, vigilance, and accountability.