Georgetown, Del., Oct. 31, 2011: Sussex County Councilman Vance Phillips is recovering in a Virginia medical center today following a single-engine plane crash near Lynchburg, Va., that occurred around dusk on Sunday evening.

The crash occurred in Amherst County, Va., approximately 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 30, as Mr. Phillips was conducting a solo flight in a sport plane at a private airstrip. Details of what caused the crash are unknown and will be under investigation by state and federal aviation authorities.

Mr. Phillips survived the crash, and was conscious when witnesses responded to the scene. He was transported to Lynchburg General Hospital, and then airlifted to the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Va., where he is listed in serious condition.

The extent of Mr. Phillips’ injuries are unknown this morning. Due to federal patient privacy rules, any information released on his condition will be at the discretion of Mr. Phillips and his family.

County Council President Michael Vincent released the following statement: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone here at Sussex County government are with Vance and his family this morning. Vance is a strong and determined man. We wish him a speedy recovery, and look forward to him returning to the important business of representing the people of Sussex County.”

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