Accident Summary
On June 29, 2025, at about 1107 eastern daylight time, a Beech 95-B55, registration N9420Y, was substantially damaged when it crashed near Mount Dora, Florida. The private pilot was seriously injured, and the passenger sustained minor injuries. The aircraft was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Passenger Account
According to the passenger, the flight was intended to obtain fuel at a different, unspecified airport. This was the passenger's first flight in an airplane. He observed the pilot perform a preflight inspection, but no fuel was added. During engine start-up and taxi, everything appeared normal. After takeoff, once the nose of the airplane became airborne, the right engine “sputtered out,” and the aircraft immediately veered to the right. The airplane struck a tree before coming to rest in an adjacent lake. After the aircraft came to rest, the pilot shut off the fuel, and both occupants exited the aircraft and walked back to the airport for assistance.
Damage and Location
The airplane came to rest partially submerged in a pond located in a residential area. The impact caused substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.
Aftermath
The wreckage was retained for further investigation.