What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Jacksonville-Towers Field NAS, the aircraft experienced a mechanical failure in its left engine. In response to the loss of power, the crew declared an emergency and received clearance from air traffic control to perform a return to the airfield.
While attempting the final approach, the aircraft type (unspecified) impacted the surface of the St Johns River. The impact occurred approximately 125 yards away from the shoreline. Upon hitting the water, the plane settled in shallow areas where it was subsequently destroyed by the force of the accident. Of the occupants on board, one passenger was successfully rescued, but the accident resulted in 14 fatalities.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary factor in the accident was the failure of the left engine during the period immediately following takeoff.