On September 5, 1999, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N4830S) was involved in an aviation accident near Westerly, RI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control of the airplane during a turn. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane departed normally but felt shaky, then turned right. The pilot adjusted radios and then turned the yoke sharply left, causing a left bank and descent into terrain beyond the runway.
Departure and Initial Climb
According to a passenger, the airplane departed normally but felt 'very shaky' during the climb. As it gained altitude, the airplane began a slow right turn.
Pilot Actions
The pilot appeared concerned and reached up toward the air vents. He then moved his right hand down to the area where the communications and navigation radios are located and appeared to turn a dial. Immediately afterward, he moved his hand to the yoke, gripping it with both hands and turning it approximately 90 degrees to the left.
Maneuver and Descent
The airplane responded by banking to the left. It then descended and impacted terrain in an open field about 200 feet beyond the departure end of the runway.
Engine and Propeller Evidence
Witnesses reported hearing the airplane's engine 'operating normally' as it departed. Post-accident examination revealed rotational damage on both propeller blades.