Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Representative Tom Tiffany experienced a scare when the small plane he was in lost power and had to make an emergency landing in a lake on Saturday night. Both Tiffany and the pilot escaped with minor injuries.
According to Tiffany, the incident occurred as their four-seat Bonanza was approaching Wausau Downtown Airport following an event in La Crosse County. “The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau,” Tiffany explained via social media.
The pilot made an emergency water landing in Lake Wausau.
After hitting the water, Tiffany and the pilot immediately called 911. However, the plane began filling with water quickly. Both exited the aircraft and swam to a shallower area where they awaited rescue by boat.
Rescuers soon arrived and transported them to Aspirus Wausau Hospital. Tiffany reported that both he and the pilot sustained only minor injuries.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the pilot, the Wausau Fire Department, and all of the first responders who came to our aid so quickly,” Tiffany stated. “They got us safely off the water and transported us to Aspirus Wausau Hospital, where we received excellent care.”
His wife, Chris, joined him at the hospital. Tiffany expressed gratitude for surviving the experience, emphasizing the value of life and the presence of his loved ones.
God was watching over us tonight, and I am incredibly grateful to be here with my wife, Chris, by my side.
The incident prompted an outpouring of relief and support on social media. Comments included expressions of gratitude for their safety and prayers for those involved.
Tiffany currently represents Wisconsin’s 7th Congressional District and is a Republican candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election in the state. The cause of the power loss in the plane remains under investigation.