Casualties unknown

1986-09-20: Cessna 172 (N5481J) — Fred R. Laplante — Overton, NV

Overton, NV, US

On September 20, 1986, a Cessna 172 (registration N5481J) operated by Fred R. Laplante was involved in an aviation accident near Overton, NV. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft identified as '81J' crashed near the Overton Arm of Lake Mead after low flying. The wreckage was found on a mountain. Toxicology tests showed alcohol in pilot and passenger.

Background

At approximately 2300 PDT, the UNICOM operator at Boulder City made radio contact with an aircraft identified as '81J' after hearing it maneuvering in the area. The pilot stated he did not plan to land at Boulder City, but intended to fly up the Vegas Wash area.

Witness Accounts

Between approximately 2300 and 2400 PDT, witnesses observed a low flying aircraft that was "buzzing" a boat, campers, and vehicles in the area of Vegas Wash and the Overton Arm of Lake Mead.

Wreckage Discovery

The following day at about 1000 PDT, the wreckage was sighted approximately 150 feet below the crest of a 1,622-foot mountain, east of the Overton Arm.

Toxicology Results

Toxicology checks of the pilot's and passenger's blood showed alcohol levels of 0.18 and 0.14 mg% (0.18% and 0.14%), respectively.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34876. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.