Flight Details
A pilot and three passengers took off at night on an over-water flight to an island in Lake Erie. The purpose of the flight was to provide help to a heart patient. No flight plan was filed, and no record of a weather briefing was found.
Disappearance and Search
Reportedly, after takeoff, the aircraft disappeared in a cloud or haze. Sheriff's personnel received a radio call from the aircraft stating, "We are in it." According to local residents, there was patchy fog in the area. When the aircraft did not arrive at its destination, a search was initiated.
Wreckage Examination
The plane was found in Lake Erie along the expected route of flight. The aircraft was intact, except the engine was loose from the firewall and there was major damage to the right, outer wing panel. No preimpact or mechanical malfunction or failure was found.
Weather Conditions
About 45 miles west at Toledo, Ohio, the 2150 weather report in part was: 1500 feet overcast, visibility variable 1 to 2 miles with fog, temperature 32°F, dew point 31°F, wind from 330 degrees at 4 knots.