Details
A non-instrument rated pilot initiated a visual flight rules (VFR) journey from St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, to San Juan, Puerto Rico, at approximately 2000 local time. The weather conditions at departure were reported as VFR, though the flight was conducted during a dark night. The aircraft subsequently failed to arrive at its intended destination.
Search and Recovery
After the aircraft was reported overdue, a search operation was launched. Approximately 10 miles northwest of the St. Croix VOR, debris was spotted floating on the ocean surface. The recovered items included a seat, one main landing gear, insulation panels, and the aircraft registration certificate. The presence of these items indicated that the aircraft had broken apart upon impact.
Examination
An examination of the recovered aircraft parts was conducted. The analysis revealed that the aircraft struck the ocean water at a high rate of speed. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration number, or occupant status were provided in the investigation source.