Flight History
On May 14, 2023, at approximately 2125 central daylight time, a Cessna 172D, registration N2946U, was substantially damaged in an accident near Chambers, Nebraska. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
According to the airplane owner, the flight originated from Newton City/County Airport (EWK) in Newton, Kansas, with a planned destination of Glen Ullin Regional Airport (D57) in Glen Ullin, North Dakota. No records indicated that the pilot filed a flight plan or obtained a weather briefing. No communications from the pilot were recorded during the flight.
Several witnesses reported hearing an airplane flying low over their residence, approximately 1.6 miles south of the accident site. Another witness observed the airplane flying just above tree-top height with its landing light and flashing lights on. The witnesses noted low clouds, fog, and mist in the area. A home video surveillance camera captured what appeared to be the airplane's landing light descending toward the ground, with precipitation and fog visible. The airplane was not equipped with Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B), and no radar data were available. No distress calls were heard. The wreckage was located by a local rancher on May 16 at approximately 1300.
Weather Conditions
The National Weather Service surface analysis and prognostic charts indicated a low-pressure system over eastern Kansas with extensive overrunning clouds and precipitation stretching over Kansas and Nebraska. Weather observations in the area reported northeasterly winds, visibility restricted by light rain, and low overcast ceilings at 300 feet near the accident site. Witness accounts described misty and foggy conditions. Forecasts called for instrument flight rules conditions, and an AIRMET was active for low ceilings and low visibility. No record existed of the pilot receiving a weather briefing.
Astronomical conditions showed that civil twilight ended about five minutes before the accident, resulting in dark nighttime conditions with no moon illumination. Witness accounts of local weather were consistent with official forecasts and reports.
Conditions were conducive for carburetor ice at cruise power; however, witnesses described the engine as loud just before impact.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage debris path was oriented approximately 049° magnetic and extended about 152 feet from the initial impact area. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact anomalies. Continuity of flight controls was confirmed from the cockpit to all flight surfaces. The propeller blades exhibited polishing and bending consistent with rotation at impact. The carburetor heat knob was found in the off position. Fuel samples from the wing tanks tested negative for water and contaminants. Ground scars indicated the airplane impacted in a shallow, wings-level attitude.
Pilot Medical Information
An autopsy conducted at the Douglas County Morgue in Omaha, Nebraska, determined the cause of death as blunt force injuries. The pilot had coronary artery disease, including 75–90% narrowing of the left anterior descending coronary artery by calcified plaque, 10–25% narrowing of the right coronary artery, and less than 10% narrowing of the left main and left circumflex coronary arteries. No coronary artery clot or heart muscle scarring was observed. Toxicology tests performed by the FAA's Civil Aerospace Medical Institute were negative for drugs and alcohol.