Pilots Racing in WWII-Era Planes Die in Midair Collision Shortly After 1st–2nd Finish in Nevada

Members of the Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue Department and other officials look over aircraft wreckage in Reno, Nev., on Sept. 17, 2023, after two California pilots were killed when their planes collided in mid-air while preparing to land after completing a race at the National Championship Air Races north of Reno. Adam R. Mayberry/Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue via AP

RENO, Nev.—Two veteran California pilots were killed over the weekend when their World War II-era planes collided in midair while preparing to land just after finishing first and second in a title race at the National Championship Air Races north of Reno.

Officials identified the victims of Sunday’s crash as Chris Rushing of Thousand Oaks and Nick Macy, 67, of Tulelake.