What happened
On the day of its first flight following a completed annual inspection, an aircraft was departing from runway 05 at Naples Municipal Airport. During the takeoff phase, witnesses reported that the engine stopped functioning. Observers noted that the propeller was either rotating at a very low speed or had ceased rotation entirely. Following the loss of engine power, the aircraft entered a sharp turn and began an uncontrolled, steep descent toward the ground.
The aircraft struck the ground in a near-vertical, nose-low orientation. The impact occurred along the eastern perimeter of the airport, where the wreckage became lodged in trees and a fence, supported by its tail section. The accident resulted in three fatalities, involving the pilot and two passengers. The aircraft sustained significant structural damage during the crash.
Findings
Post-accident investigations of the engine, flight controls, and airframe structure found no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure. At the time of impact, the flaps were positioned at 10 degrees, and the propeller showed minimal evidence of rotation.
Toxicological analysis of the pilot's samples revealed the presence of diphenhydramine in both the blood and urine. The concentration of diphenhydramine in the pilot's blood was consistent with the recent ingestion of a dose exceeding a standard over-the-counter amount. The presence of this sedative antihistamine in the pilot's system was a significant finding, as the medication is known to cause impairment similar to or greater than certain levels of alcohol consumption.