A small plane crashed near Bend Wednesday morning, bursting into flames and killing the pilot.

Doug Sharratt of Bakersfield, California died in the crash. The plane was registered to ProSoft Technology of Bakersfield, which makes automation equipment. The company's web site listed Sharratt as the company's president.

The plane, a Cessna 441 twin engine turbo prop, crashed at the Sunriver Airport, near bike paths and a golf course, while horrified witnesses watched.

Slideshow: Photos of plane crash

Jon Russell was waiting at the airport to take a glider ride when he saw the plane clip trees, then strike the runway, tilt sideways, and explode in flames.

"It kind of bounced off one tire, went sideways and lost control," Shirley said. "It looked like it hit the runway once and lost control."

"It's one of those things that when you see it, you're a little bit shaken," said Russell.

Fire crews were called to the scene but could not reach the pilot in time to save him.

“One of those extremely tragic incidents,” said Jim Bennett of the Sunriver Fire department said.

A chaplain was sent to the Sunriver airport to comfort the victim's family. Sharratt's wife and child were said to be on the scene. Investigators believe Sharrett was the only person on board.