North Dakota and the Fargo community are mourning the tragic passing of State Representative Liz Conmy (D-Fargo), who was killed in a small plane crash on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.
The 58-year-old lawmaker was traveling in a Beech F33A aircraft with her partner and the pilot, Dr. Joe Cass, who also tragically lost his life in the accident.
Incident Details
The Crash: The aircraft went down shortly before noon on Saturday in a small park northwest of the Crystal Airport, shortly after takeoff. First responders found the plane on fire, and both occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
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Investigation: Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash.
Tribute in the Capitol: North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong has ordered all United States and North Dakota flags to be flown at half-staff until the day of her interment in honor of her service.
A Legacy of Public Service
Representative Conmy had served District 11 in Fargo since 2022 and was widely respected for her “wicked sense of humor” and her ability to work across the political aisle.
Legislative Focus: She was a champion for public education, environmental transparency, and human rights. She served on the state’s Human Trafficking Commission and worked extensively on immigration and habitat issues.
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The 2026 Election: Because the deadline for ballot withdrawal had already passed (April 8), Representative Conmy’s name will remain on the June 9 primary ballot. Secretary of State Michael Howe confirmed that any votes cast for her will still be counted and certified.
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Celebration of Life
In keeping with her wish that funerals should be celebrations rather than somber events, her family has requested that attendees wear colorful clothing—particularly her favorite color, yellow.
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Time: 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: RiverHaven Events Center, Moorhead, Minnesota
Remembering Liz Conmy
Colleagues from the North Dakota Democratic–Nonpartisan League (Dem-NPL) described her as a “powerhouse” and a “spitfire” who brought infectious joy into every space. House Minority Leader Zac Ista noted that “no one in the House was better at making or taking a joke.”
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She is survived by her four children and several grandchildren. Her family and friends have expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support from across the state as they navigate this immeasurable loss.
