1 fatality

Fatal Crash of Rented Aircraft in Instrument Conditions (N8204A)

Victoria, TX, US

On January 30, 1985, a Piper PA-34-220T (registration N8204A) operated by Dallas Piper was involved in an aviation accident near Victoria, TX. One person was killed. 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 2026-06-20Data APIEditorial standards

A rented aircraft crashed during hours of darkness in instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in the death of the pilot and serious injuries to a passenger.

What happened

The pilot had rented the aircraft on January 28, 1985, though the intended route of flight was not reported. There were no recorded communications with the aircraft prior to the incident. The aircraft impacted the surface during hours of darkness while operating in instrument meteorological conditions. The impact resulted in the demolition of the airframe.

Findings

The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the crash. A passenger aboard the aircraft received serious injuries. Following the accident, law enforcement officers recovered a large quantity of marijuana from the wreckage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Jan 1985 Piper PA-34-220T accident near Victoria, TX?

A rented aircraft crashed during hours of darkness in instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in the death of the pilot and serious injuries to a passenger.

Were there any fatalities in the 30 Jan 1985 Piper PA-34-220T accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Jan 1985 involved a Piper PA-34-220T, registration N8204A, operated by Dallas Piper, at Victoria, TX.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X35517. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.