Witness says debris struck spectators

RENO, Nev. – An eyewitness to the crash of a World War II-era plane in Reno, Nev., says it struck the tarmac 50 to 75 feet in front of the spectators.

Ryan Harris of Round Mountain, Nev., says the plane struck directly in front of him, missing the grandstand. He said it happened quickly and "nobody had an opportunity to do anything."

John Townes of Reno said as a pilot, he knew something was wrong when he heard the plane. He said the plane came in "at a very slight angle" and that probably saved a lot of people.

He said there were no recognizable parts in the wreckage. He said, "There was nothing, just bits of metal."

The crash Friday killed at least three people and sent dozens to the hospital.