Fatal aircraft collision with residence in Amherst, New Hampshire

Casualties unknown • Amherst, NH, US

A pilot died following a mid-air collision with his own home after departing an airport in New Hampshire shortly after being served a restraining order.

What happened

Following the issuance of a restraining order by law enforcement officials at his residence in Amherst, New Hampshire, the pilot was escorted from the property. The following morning, the pilot arrived at the airport and requested that his aircraft be removed from the hangar.

Before airport personnel could assist with the request, the pilot personally moved the aircraft out of the hangar, performed a preflight inspection, and departed the field. During the initial climb, shortly after takeoff, the pilot contacted air traffic control to ask for directional guidance, inquiring if Amherst was located near a "green water tower."

A neighbor observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude over the area, noting that it descended in a steep angle of bank. After the aircraft disappeared from view, the sound of three distinct impacts was heard. The aircraft had struck the pilot's residence, resulting in 1 fatality. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of New Hampshire subsequently ruled the death a suicide.

Probable cause

The death was ruled a suicide by the medical examiner.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2001-08-25 Socata TB-20 accident near Amherst, NH?

A pilot died following a mid-air collision with his own home after departing an airport in New Hampshire shortly after being served a restraining order.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2001-08-25 involved a Socata TB-20, registration N470SP, at Amherst, NH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The death was ruled a suicide by the medical examiner.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010905X01883. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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