Casualties unknown

Pilot and Passenger Drown After Aircraft Accident Near Ocean City (N5284P)

Ocean City, MD, US

On December 2, 1982, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N5284P) operated by Thayer, William H. was involved in an aviation accident near Ocean City, MD. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot and passenger drowned after their aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean near Ocean City, Maryland. The aircraft was not recovered. Low ceilings and visibility were reported in the area at the time.

Incident Summary

The bodies of a pilot and a passenger were recovered from the Atlantic Ocean near Ocean City, Maryland, following an aircraft accident. According to a medical examiner, both individuals died of drowning without suffering serious traumatic injuries. The aircraft was not recovered.

Environmental Conditions

Low ceilings and reduced visibilities were reported in the area throughout the day and evening. The occupants were found at 2314 Eastern Standard Time, and the medical examiner estimated they had been in the water for approximately six hours.

Pilot and Aircraft Information

The pilot was not instrument rated, and the aircraft was not equipped for instrument flight.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04308. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.