Background
The pilots of a Cessna 310, registration N145Y, and a Beech J35 Bonanza, registration N4258B, prearranged a flight for the purpose of filming a video while flying together as a two-aircraft formation.
Accident Sequence
During the flight, the Bonanza pilot assumed the lead position, with the Cessna flying in loose echelon formation. The aircraft proceeded over Utah Lake at low altitude. Conditions at the time included light wind and calm water on the lake. While flying low over the lake, the Cessna struck the water.
Video footage recorded during the flight showed that immediately before the water impact, the Bonanza was positioned to the right side of the Cessna and at a slightly higher altitude.
Post-Accident Findings
Following the accident, the Cessna sank in approximately 12 feet of water. Both occupants of the Cessna sustained blunt force trauma associated with the impact; however, the medical examiner reported their deaths were due to drowning.