In an extraordinary incident this Sunday afternoon, a pilot managed a narrow escape from disaster when his single-engine plane crashed into a Sacramento golf course.

According to Daily Mail, a mechanical malfunction forced a plane down onto the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex. The plane miraculously spared a golfer on the putting green and caused only minor injuries to the pilot.

The Haggin Oaks Golf Complex in Sacramento was the unexpected landing site for a Piper PA28 aircraft around 1:20 p.m., under sunny skies.

The plane, experiencing complete mechanical failure, could not maintain altitude and crashed as local golfers were playing nearby.

The pilot, who is in his 30s to 40s, had taken off from Sacramento's McClellan Airfield moments before the incident. Despite attempting a return to the airfield, he soon realized it wouldn't be feasible.

Capt. Justin Sylvia of the Sacramento Fire Department reported that the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing on what he deemed the safest nearby location—the golf complex.

The aircraft skidded across the green, narrowly avoiding a golfer who was finishing up on the 10th hole.

Emergency Landing Captured on Camera

A video showing the aircraft grazing the putting green documented the close call. Tim Cowan, a golfer at the scene, described hearing a loud crash that his group initially mistook for a car accident in the parking lot.

The plane did not stop immediately upon hitting the ground; it slid between 50 and 70 yards before impacting a nearby building. This caused structural damage and a gas leak when a wheel became detached from the aircraft.

While the golfer on the putting green was left unshaken physically, the pilot sustained a minor cut on his hand. No other injuries were reported on site.

Golf Complex Operations Adjusted Following Crash

Ken Morton Jr., Vice President of Haggin Oaks, expressed his relief and amazement that no one was more seriously injured.

He referred to the event as a “miracle,” especially considering the typical crowded nature of the golf complex during the weekends.

In the aftermath, certain facilities within the golf complex, including the restaurant and pro shop, were temporarily shut down for cleanup and safety assessments.

Despite these disruptions, parts of the complex, such as the Golf Super Shop and the driving range, which includes over 100 stalls, remained operational.

Capt. Justin Sylvia added a lighter note, suggesting that the pilot should "go buy a lottery ticket today," commenting on the fortunate outcome of what could have been a much more severe incident.

Community Reflects on Unbelievable Near Miss

The community and regular visitors to the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex have been abuzz with discussions over the incident. Pilots and aviation experts point to the rarity of mechanical failures leading to emergency landings on golf courses.

The Haggin Oaks complex, known for its extensive facilities, including two golf courses and a large driving range, briefly became the center of local attention as crews worked to repair the damage and prevent any further issues from the gasoline leak and structural impacts.

This incident serves as a remarkable case of averted disaster in Sacramento, reminding residents and authorities of the unpredictability of mechanical failures and the importance of emergency preparedness.