On January 5, 1984, a Piper J3C-65 (registration N98322) was involved in an aviation accident near Elm Springs, SD. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot searching for stray cattle along a river bottom crashed into terrain, sustaining serious head injury. The passenger was found deceased. The pilot held only a student certificate and an expired medical certificate.
Accident Details
During a flight along a river bottom intended to locate stray cattle, an aircraft struck the ground. The pilot sustained a serious head injury and was unable to recall specifics of the event. He reported believing that the aircraft was flying at approximately 100 feet above ground level (AGL) prior to the crash. Examination of the accident site indicated that the aircraft impacted in a nose-down, right-wing-low attitude while at slow speed. Rescue personnel discovered the pilot in a semi-conscious state.
Passenger and Pilot Condition
The passenger was found deceased outside the right cockpit door. The pilot had previously obtained a student pilot certificate many years ago but had not progressed to a private pilot certificate. Additionally, the pilot's third-class medical certificate had expired by the time of the accident.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Jan 1984 Piper J3C-65 accident near Elm Springs, SD?
A pilot searching for stray cattle along a river bottom crashed into terrain, sustaining serious head injury. The passenger was found deceased. The pilot held only a student certificate and an expired medical certificate.
Were there any fatalities in the 5 Jan 1984 Piper J3C-65 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jan 1984 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N98322, at Elm Springs, SD.
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