On April 19, 1985, a Cessna 140 (registration N72587) was involved in an aviation accident near Hawesville, KY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft struck the lowest of three power lines spanning the Ohio River, causing a wing separation. The aircraft then collided with and sank into the river. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying low along the river before the accident.
Overview
An aircraft collided with and sank into the Ohio River after experiencing a wing separation. The wing separation occurred after the aircraft contacted the lowest wire in a set of three power lines that spanned the river. Two other wires were located above the set of three power lines.
Events
Witnesses on and near the river reported seeing the aircraft flying low along the river. One witness on a boat stated that he looked down at the aircraft as it flew by approximately 50 feet away from the craft. The aircraft was reported to be in level flight heading east along the river just prior to contacting the power line.
Findings
The aircraft made contact with the lowest wire of the three power lines. This contact led to a wing separation. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with the water and sank.
Conclusion
The sequence of events, as reported by witnesses and the circumstances of the accident, is documented without further analysis.