News Summary
Tom Perkins and his wife Agatha tragically died in a plane crash shortly after takeoff from New Bedford Regional Airport. Their Socata TBM 700 went down, resulting in a fire and leaving the community in shock. Known for their contributions to historic preservation through their construction firm, the couple’s loss has deeply impacted local residents, who are sharing memories and condolences.
New Bedford, MA – Tom Perkins and Wife Identified as Victims of Fiery Plane Crash on I-195
Tom Perkins and his wife, Agatha, tragically lost their lives in a plane crash shortly after taking off from New Bedford Regional Airport on October 13, 2025. The couple was the only occupants of the Socata TBM 700 aircraft, which went down just after 8 AM, resulting in a fiery scene documented by bystanders.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed the identities of the crash victims, marking a somber incident that has drawn significant attention from the community. The accident not only left the Perkins family devastated but also involved another person who sustained injuries in the incident.
Details of the Crash
Authorities reported that the crash produced a notable fire, leading to immediate response from emergency services. Footage from the scene depicted the intense flames and wreckage, underscoring the severity of the accident. First responders arrived promptly but were unable to save the occupants of the aircraft.
Notable Contributions of Tom Perkins
Tom Perkins was well known in the local community as a partner in Kirby Perkins, a Middletown-based construction firm recognized for its excellence in historic restoration and preservation projects. Over the past 30 years, Kirby Perkins Construction has received multiple awards for its contributions to maintaining and restoring historical sites, a testament to both Tom and Agatha’s commitment to their work and community.
Community Impact and Reaction
The untimely deaths of the Perkins couple have sent shockwaves throughout the community, as they were respected figures who contributed to many local projects. Their work in historic preservation left a lasting impact on the region, which has now been overshadowed by this tragic event. Community members have begun to share memories and condolences, highlighting the couple’s deep ties and contributions to New Bedford and beyond.
Background on the Aircraft
The Socata TBM 700 is a high-performance turboprop aircraft often used for private and business travel. Known for its speed and efficiency, this type of aircraft has been popular among business professionals. The model, while generally regarded as reliable, has faced scrutiny in the past due to its complexity and the rigorous training required for pilots.
Investigative Measures
In the wake of the crash, investigators will be working to determine the exact cause of the incident. This process will include examining the aircraft’s maintenance records, the actions of the pilots during takeoff, and environmental conditions at the time of the flight. The safety of aviation is paramount, and investigators will thoroughly review all factors leading to the unfortunate accident.
Conclusion
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Tom and Agatha Perkins, whose contributions to historic preservation will be remembered. Their legacy lives on through the numerous projects they have completed and the impact they have had on the community they cherished.
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Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Rhode Island Hit by Noreaster
- GoLocal Prov: Winter Weather Advisory Issued
- Providence Journal: Hurricane Season Preparations
- Wikipedia: Plane Crash
- Providence Journal: Rhode Island Snow Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aviation

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