4 fatal · PIPER PA 32R-300 · 2014-04-28 · Highmore, SD, USA
Event
NTSB number
CEN14FA224
Event ID
20140428X10808
Type
Accident
Date
2014-04-28
Location
Highmore, SD, USA
Coordinates
44.369167, -99.463058
Injuries
Highest injury
FATL
Fatal
4
Serious
0
Minor
0
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
4
Aircraft
Make
PIPER
Model
PA 32R-300
Registration
N8700E
FAR Part
091
Engines
1
Damage
DEST
Conditions
Light
NDRK
Weather
IMC
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue the flight into known deteriorating weather conditions at a low altitude and his subsequent failure to remain clear of an unlit wind turbine. Contributing to the accident was the inoperative obstruction light on the wind turbine, which prevented the pilot from visually identifying the wind turbine.