On September 26, 1987, a Beech E55 (registration N4158A) was involved in an aviation accident near Block Island, RI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft aborted takeoff after the passenger door opened at about 115 mph, overran the 2,500-foot runway, crossed a fence, gully, and road before stopping. No mechanical issues were reported.
Incident Sequence
The aircraft was accelerating for takeoff. As it reached approximately 115 mph, just before becoming airborne, the passenger-side door opened. The pilot immediately decided to abort the takeoff. However, the remaining runway length of 2,500 feet was insufficient to stop the aircraft.
Runway Excursion and Final Resting Position
After departing the end of the runway, the aircraft continued through a fence, down a gully, and onto an adjacent road, where it came to rest.
Investigation Results
Investigators reported no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure.