Loss of Control and In-Flight Breakup Near Brick Township (N456WM)

Accident

While cruising at a relatively low altitude, a twin-engine airplane entered a series of hazardous maneuvers. Control was lost, and the aircraft crashed near Brick Township. The airplane was totally destroyed. All six occupants were killed.

Investigation

The investigation revealed that the pilot had exceeded the designed stress limits of the aircraft. Factors reported included the pilot's physical impairment and alcoholic impairment of efficiency and judgment. The pilot's alcohol level was measured at 1.05‰ in tissue fluid. The accident sequence involved an in-flight separation of the wings and tail after a series of steep dives and pull-ups, resulting in an overload failure.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause is that the pilot exceeded the designed stress limits of the aircraft.