Accident Overview
On August 24, 2024, at approximately 1010 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna A185F, registration N61323, sustained substantial damage after a water landing accident on Meridian Lake near Kent, Washington. The flight was conducted as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The pilot, the sole occupant, was fatally injured.
Witness Observations
Multiple witnesses reported seeing the amphibious float-equipped airplane approach the lake from the northwest, intending to land on the water in a southeasterly direction. The approach appeared normal, but witnesses noted that the landing gear was in the extended position. As the floats contacted the water surface, the airplane abruptly nosed over, coming to rest inverted and partially submerged in the lake.
Flight Tracking
Preliminary ADS-B data showed that the airplane departed from Norman-Grier Field (S36) in Kent, Washington, at about 1005 and proceeded northwest toward Meridian Lake. The data indicated the airplane approached the lake from the north-northwest. The last recorded ADS-B data point was over the northwestern area of the lake, approximately five minutes after takeoff.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed that the landing gear was in the extended position. The wreckage was recovered to a secure facility for further examination. No additional causal factors were identified in the preliminary information.