What happened
On August 07, 2025, at 1532 Pacific daylight time, a North American T-28C, registration N9748Y, was involved in an accident near West Wendover, Utah. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for a personal flight. The flight was intended to return the occupants home following the Bonneville Speed Week.
After departing the airport and initiating a gradual climb, the pilot began a right turn toward mountainous terrain. At an altitude of approximately 700 to 800 feet above ground level, the aircraft began to shudder with vibrations emanating from the front of the airplane. The passenger reported no initial reduction in power, no smell of fuel, oil, or smoke, and no abnormal sounds. As the pilot continued the right turn, the vibration became severe. The aircraft subsequently descended and struck the ground with significant force, bouncing several times before coming to rest approximately 1.5 miles from the airport.
The accident resulted in 2 serious injuries; the pilot and passenger were both injured, though neither sustained fatal wounds. Both occupants were wearing seat belts but were not wearing helmets.