WASHINGTON — Newly uncovered details have emerged following the fatal plane crash that took the lives of Grammy award-winning songwriter Brett James and two others last month in North Carolina. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has published its preliminary findings regarding the crash on September 18.

Federal investigators report that the plane piloted by Brett James appeared to enter a spiral descent before it collided with the ground in a field near an elementary school.

The report indicates that James’ Cirrus SR22T aircraft departed from Nashville’s John C. Tune Airport, with its planned destination being Macon County Airport in Franklin. At the time of the incident, the plane was conducting a personal flight under visual flight rules, with James at the controls.

As the plane neared the airport at approximately 2:48 p.m., James communicated that he had visual contact with the runway and received clearance to switch to the common traffic advisory frequency. Shortly afterward, he informed air traffic control that he was flying at 6,800 feet and intended to execute a full 360-degree turn prior to landing.

This was the last communication received from the aircraft.

Flight tracking data showed the plane began descending in a left turn before entering what investigators describe as a “tightening spiral.” It crashed about a half-mile from the runway in a field near Iotla Valley Elementary School.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying unusually low over the school’s playground, with its wings “rocking side-to-side.” The plane was then seen rolling inverted before disappearing behind trees and crashing.

No one on the ground was injured.

The report says James’ plane came to rest upright in the field with all major components of the aircraft still at the scene. Investigators found no signs of engine failure. The plane was recovered and is undergoing further investigation.

James was best known for writing hits like Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down.” He was also a 2020 inductee into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.