Incident Overview
Two aircraft departed from New Bedford, Massachusetts, on flights to Martha's Vineyard. The pilot of one aircraft diverted to another airport due to deteriorating weather conditions at the destination. The second aircraft did not arrive at Martha's Vineyard and was later found where it had crashed in New Bedford Harbor.
Witness Report
A witness aboard a fishing boat reported seeing an aircraft flying at a low altitude, approximately 100 feet, heading toward the harbor. Scattered fog was reported in the bay area at the time.
Impact and Injuries
Examination of the accident site indicated the aircraft impacted in a right-wing-low attitude. The actual impact was not observed by any witness. The occupants of the aircraft sustained fatal injuries.
Mechanical Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed no preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction.