Overview
Shortly after takeoff, an aircraft crashed approximately 200 yards off the northwest shore of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. The wreckage came to rest in 135 feet of water and was not recovered.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses observed the aircraft in straight-and-level flight with the engine running normally. Without warning, the aircraft suddenly pitched straight down and entered the ocean. No further maneuvers were reported.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather along the northwest coast included rain, thunder, lightning, and high winds. The pilot had received a weather briefing from the St. Croix tower approximately seven minutes before takeoff, during which he was advised of thunderstorms located northwest through northeast of the airport.
Toxicological Findings
Toxicological tests conducted on the pilot and passenger revealed blood alcohol levels of 0.093% and 0.081%, respectively. No other toxicological information was provided.