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Nighttime Low-Altitude Collision with Trees Near Flagler Beach (N711MK)

Flagler Beach, United States of AmericaFlight

On June 11, 1981, a Rockwell Aero Commander 500 (registration N711MK) operated by A. W. Hirshberg was involved in an aviation accident near Flagler Beach, United States of America in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees after the pilot exercised poor judgment and unwarranted low flying. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft struck trees and crashed near Flagler Beach at night, killing the passenger. The pilot was not found, and marijuana was discovered in the wreckage.

Incident Overview and Casualties A twin-engine aircraft was operating at a low altitude during nighttime conditions when it collided with trees and crashed in the vicinity of Flagler Beach. The impact caused the aircraft to burst into flames and be destroyed. The passenger was killed in the accident. The pilot was not found, and injury is presumed. ## Wreckage Findings A load of marijuana was found in the wreckage of the aircraft. ## Official Findings The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a collision with trees after the pilot exercised poor judgment and unwarranted low flying.

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