Accident Sequence
The aircraft was flying at low altitude in the vicinity of Interstate I-95 when the pilot executed a 360-degree right turn. Following the turn, the aircraft collided with power lines spanning the interstate, then crashed and caught fire. A witness reported that the aircraft had descended to an estimated 35 to 50 feet above ground level before contacting the power lines.
Examination Findings
An examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction. The pilot was operating the aircraft from the right seat. The outboard (male) portion of the right seat belt was found connected to the inboard (female) portion of the left seat belt. Similarly, the outboard (male) portion of the left seat belt was connected to the inboard (female) portion of the right seat belt. However, the inboard portion of the right seat belt was not anchored to the airframe.
Injuries and Toxicology
Passengers in the left front and left rear seats were fatally injured. Postmortem examinations of these passengers did not reveal injuries consistent with the use of restraint systems. A toxicology screening of the pilot indicated a blood alcohol level of 0.155%.