25 Years Since JFK Jr.'s Fatal Plane Crash

Tuesday marks 25 years since the tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of John F. Kennedy Jr., his wife Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, and her sister Lauren Bessette. On July 16, 1999, their plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, as they were en route to Rory Kennedy's wedding. The National Transportation Safety Board attributed the accident to JFK Jr.'s spatial disorientation while piloting at night. The wreckage and remains were found five days later, and the victims were buried at sea. The crash is often cited as part of the so-called 'Kennedy curse,' which has seen numerous tragic deaths within the Kennedy family. The event prompted a massive media response and extensive coverage at the Kennedy compound in Hyannisport, Massachusetts.