The pilot involved in a fatal plane crash in Mercer County has been identified.

Cuyahoga Falls resident Richard Briggs, 65, died from blunt force trauma suffered in the plane crash in Pine Township.

The plane went down in the woods by TCI Park Drive Wednesday evening. After the crash, the plane caught fire.

According to the release, preliminary information suggests that the plane being flown by Briggs was experiencing significant mechanical problems prior to the crash.

Coroner John Libonati said Briggs was attempting to land safely prior to the accident.

A passenger was taken to the hospital by helicopter and is in critical condition.

The FAA was investigating the crash site Friday morning and will make the definitive ruling on the cause of the crash.