Accident Overview
On October 13, 2024, at approximately 2230 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 336, registration N336LV, was destroyed when it impacted terrain in a residential area near Savannah, Georgia. The flight was operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. The commercial pilot sustained fatal injuries, and a pilot-rated passenger received minor injuries.
Flight History
Radar data indicated the flight departed Miami Executive Airport (TMB), Miami, Florida, en route to Savannah International Airport (SAV), Savannah, Georgia. According to air traffic control (ATC) communication information provided by the Federal Aviation Administration, the pilot contacted ATC while at an altitude of 7,000 feet, stating he was inbound to SAV and had obtained current weather conditions. The pilot was cleared to descend to 2,000 feet for an approach to runway 28 at SAV.
Shortly thereafter, the pilot requested a direct approach due to fuel concerns, which ATC approved. The pilot then reported a loss of engine power, declared an emergency, and later advised ATC that both engines had lost power. ATC provided radar vectors to Hunter Army Airfield (SVN), located about 3 miles from the airplane's position. The pilot acknowledged the instructions, reported seeing the airport's runway lights, but expressed concern about reaching the runway. In the final transmission, the pilot indicated he would not be able to reach the runway.
Wreckage Examination
The airplane impacted terrain in a residential area about 2 nautical miles northeast of SVN. All major components were located at the accident site. The cockpit and instrument panel were destroyed by impact forces. The fuselage exhibited extensive impact and crush damage. The left wing had separated outboard of the inboard fuel tank, which remained intact but empty. The outboard section of the left wing, found along the wreckage path, revealed a breached fuel tank with trace amounts of fuel observed. The right wing separated outboard of the inboard fuel tank, which remained intact and contained trace amounts of fuel. The outboard section of the right wing was partially attached via control cables, and a trace amount of fuel was observed within the tank.
Both engines remained attached to the fuselage and exhibited impact damage. The vertical stabilizer, rudder, and horizontal stabilizer were partially attached and showed signs of impact damage.
Aftermath
The wreckage was recovered and retained for further examination.