Thanks Flyguy. That explanation will help non pilot types understand some of the factors that go in to aircraft loading. Fuel weight is a huge variable that many passengers don't think about. 

So many people ask how many people the plane can carry, when they should really be asking, what is the useful load.  Besides the weight side of the equation, there is the balance side.  As I know you realize, it's possible to be within the weight limit but loaded out of the CG envelope.  (Remember Ryan Air crash in Homer in 1987)

Throw in other factors involving mechanical issues, density altitude, or pilot actions, and there is a lot to consider in any accident. 

Hopefully everyone involved recovers fully.