Flight History
The aircraft departed Marathon, Florida, for a flight to Punta Gorda, Florida. Shortly after departure, it entered instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot received an instrument clearance and a convective SIGMET warning before continuing the flight.
Loss of Contact
At 1907:43, radio contact with the aircraft was lost while it was over the Gulf of Mexico, approximately 20 miles southwest of Marco Island, Florida. About 30 seconds later, radar contact was also lost.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the area at the time included extreme, intense, and very strong weather echoes, as reported.
Radar Evidence and Breakup
The last radar return from the aircraft showed two distinct returns approximately three-quarters of a mile apart. An in-flight breakup of the aircraft was presumed to have occurred based on this evidence.
Aftermath and Occupants
One occupant, a private pilot, was recovered and was fatally injured. Minimal aircraft debris was also recovered. The other two occupants were not recovered and were presumed to be fatally injured.