MOORESVILLE, N.C. – The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported that there was no distress call made by the pilot before a deadly crash in Mooresville. However, it appears that the plane’s engine wasn’t producing power at the time of the crash, according to the NTSB.
Lynn Spencer, an air safety investigator with the NTSB, revealed at a news conference at the crash site that audio calls and investigation of the propellers suggest the engine wasn’t producing power at the time of the crash that killed Mooresville’s Randy Mysliviec, the plane’s pilot. The Piper Malibu Matrix left the Lake Norman Airpark and was heading northwest for 30 miles at 3,000 feet, before attempting to return to the airpark.
Spencer mentioned that Mysliviec made a standard two-mile final radio call as he returned toward the airpark, and that all parts of the aircraft were found on the scene, ruling out an inflight breakup. The official added that the investigation will include a search of the crash site on Adrian Lane before the aircraft is relocated to a salvage facility in Georgia for further evaluation.
The NTSB is asking anyone with video or audio of the accident to share them with witness@ntsb.gov. The crash happened around 12:15 p.m. Sunday as the plane was attempting to land at Lake Norman Airpark. The plane struck several trees and crashed into an abandoned house site on Adrian Lane off Kenway Loop in Mooresville. Mysliviec was transported to Lake Norman Regional Medical Center where he died of his injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration, Lycoming Engines, and Piper Aircrafts are also assisting with the investigation. The preliminary investigation will take about 10 days, but a full report can take approximately 18 months to determine the probable cause. These are key points in the investigation of the tragic crash in Mooresville.