March 15, 2010, Hilton Head Island, S.C., Lancair IV-P Experimental

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At about 1800 Eastern time, the airplane lost power during cruise flight and struck a pedestrian while making a forced landing on a beach. The pilot and passenger were not injured but the pedestrian was killed. The airplane sustained minor damage. Visual conditions prevailed for the IFR cross-country flight.

While in cruise flight at 13,000 feet, the instrument panel began vibrating heavily, with oil covering the windshield. Soon, there was a loud noise, the airplanes nose pitched up and the engine stopped. The pilot reported the problem to air traffic control and maneuvered the airplane to make an emergency landing on a nearby beach, striking the pedestrian. The propeller assembly separated from the crankshaft flange and was missing.

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