Film Composer James Horner Fatally Injured When The Aircraft Impacted Terrain

The NTSB has released a preliminary report from an accident which occurred June 22 in which film composer James Horner was fatally injured. Witnesses said they did not notice anything about the flight that would have indicated that the plane was in distress.

According to the report, the experimental exhibition category Short Brothers PLC S312 Tucano T MK1 airplane, N206PZ, was destroyed when it impacted terrain about 16 miles south of Maricopa, California. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, was fatally injured. The aircraft was registered to Tucano Flyer LLC, and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as personal flight. VFR conditions prevailed, and a flight plan had not been filed. The flight originated from Camarillo Airport (KCMA), Camarillo, California, at 0810.

According to the FAA, the pilot was in contact with the SoCal Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) and was receiving advisories while maneuvering over the Chumash Wilderness area. Radar reviewed by NTSB investigators depicted multiple turns, rapid changes in altitude, and airspeed. At 0925 radar contact was lost and no other communication was received from the pilot.

Examination of the accident site revealed that the wreckage was located in a dry creek bed. The airplane was destroyed by high impact forces and a postimpact fire. The debris field was 641 feet in length and 355 feet wide. A large crater about 11 feet in diameter and 5 feet deep, was found at the beginning of the debris field. Postimpact fire was observed along the debris path and throughout the surrounding terrain. About one acre of land was burned. All major structural components and primary flight controls were located within the debris path.

A witness stated that the airplane flew directly over his house in straight and level flight between 500 and 750 feet AGL. He further stated that the sound was different than other airplanes that fly in the area, but it didn't sound like anything was wrong. The airplane continued to fly straight and level in an easterly direction towards Quatal Canyon road.

Another witness located at her residence on Quatal Canyon road, was about 1 mile northeast from the first witness's location. She was outside when she saw the airplane circle her home and depart eastward paralleling Quatal Road and proceeded to fly up the canyon. She further stated that the airplane was about 500 feet AGL. The engine sound was loud and consistent. After losing sight of the airplane behind a small hill, smoke and dust was seen rising from the canyon.

The wreckage was relocated to a secure facility for further examination.

(Image from file. Not accident airplane)

FMI: www.ntsb.gov