The Tupelo Police Department said it was notified around 5 am this morning that a pilot flying what a "King Air type" airplane was considering the crash landing into a Walmart located on West Main street.
Authorities have confirmed the plane, which is believed to have been stolen, is a fixed wing multi-engine 1987 Beech C90A model.
Authorities said they have evacuated the Walmart and a Dodges eatery and gas station located near the shopping center to disperse people "as much as practical."
Roads in west Tupelo and near the airport have been reopened and the pilot was last reported to be flying near a rural area in Hickory Flat, an area northeast of Tupelo, according to local coverage of the flight path.
Authorities have reportedly convened in the area.
| Update at 8:35 p.m. ET: |
Patterson is reportedly believed to be an employee of the Tupelo Airport.