The story of Stacy Hedrick is a tribute to a woman known for her infectious positive outlook and her fierce presence on the pickleball court. A core member of the Amarillo sports community, Stacy’s vibrant personality earned her a unique place in the hearts of her fellow players.
Stacy Hedrick: The Heart of the Court
Stacy Hedrick was a dedicated member of the Amarillo Pickleball Club. Known for her “big heart” and a constant love for laughter, she was a person that teammates and friends genuinely wanted to be around.
While she was warm and positive off the court, she was a formidable force during competition. Stacy was a highly skilled former tennis player who brought that same power to pickleball. Her aggressive playing style—characterized by her tendency to “rip” the ball and smash powerful forehands rather than playing soft drop shots—earned her the affectionate nickname “Rippy.” The name was originally given to her by her friend and pilot, Glen Appling, but it quickly became the name everyone in the club used to cheer her on.
Incident Date & Time
The tragic accident took place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at approximately 11:03 PM.
Incident Location
The crash occurred in a rural, wooded area of Wimberley, Texas. First responders identified the site in the 200 block of Round Rock Road, near Ledgerock Road and FM 2325. This location is situated in the Texas Hill Country, about 40 miles southwest of Austin.
The Victims
Stacy was one of five members of the Amarillo pickleball family who lost their lives while traveling to a tournament in New Braunfels:
- Stacy Hedrick
- Justin “Glen” Appling (The Pilot)
- Hayden Dillard
- Brooke Skypala
- Seren Wilson
Details of the Accident
Stacy and her friends were traveling aboard a Cessna 421C twin-engine aircraft. The group was en route to the New Braunfels National Airport to compete in the “Cranky Pickle” tournament when the plane went down.
Flight data shows the aircraft was at a cruising altitude of 17,400 feet before it began a sudden, high-speed descent of more than 5,000 feet per minute. The plane was destroyed upon impact, and a post-impact fire was reported at the scene.
The NTSB and FAA are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. While the official cause has not yet been determined, investigators are looking at mechanical factors and weather reports, which noted cloudy conditions and a thunderstorm in the area shortly after the incident. Stacy’s legacy in Amarillo is one of joy, competitive spirit, and a “Rippy” forehand that her friends will never forget.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends during this time of tragic loss. We stand with our community in offering our sincere thoughts and prayers to all those affected.
