Accident Overview
On approach to Madison-Blackhawk Airport, a twin-engine airplane owned by American singer Otis Redding went out of control, nosed down, and crashed into Lake Monoma. The aircraft was en route from Cleveland to Madison, carrying Redding's band, the Bar-Kays. Wreckage was found three miles short of the runway.
Occupants and Casualties
Among the eight occupants, seven were killed, including Otis Redding, aged 26. The only survivor was Ben Cauley, a member of the Bar-Kays, who was rescued from the wreckage.
Investigation
The official investigation into the accident was hampered by the fact that the left engine and left propeller were never recovered from the crash site.
Probable Cause
The exact cause of the accident could not be determined. The left engine and the left propeller were never recovered.