NTSB Probes Fatal Cessna 172 Crash During Test Flight in Rhode Island

WESTERLY, R.I. — A 21-year-old pilot was killed May 18 when a Cessna 172N crashed in a farm field near Westerly, Rhode Island, during a post-maintenance test flight.

The accident occurred at approximately 12:05 p.m. EDT as the pilot conducted the test flight to verify proper operation of the aircraft's alternator, according to National Transportation Safety Board preliminary data. The Cessna 172N, registration N733CP, was substantially damaged in the crash.

Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying at an unusually low altitude and slow speed before banking sharply to the right. According to NTSB reports, one witness observed the airplane roll nearly 90 degrees before diving behind a tree line. Physical evidence indicates the aircraft impacted the ground right wingtip-first, then cartwheeled approximately 70 feet from the initial impact point. Local authorities identified the pilot as Isaac Seekell of Charlestown, Rhode Island. An NTSB investigator documented the wreckage within 24 hours, and the aircraft will be moved to a secure facility for detailed analysis. A final report is expected within one to two years.