NTSB Factual Report

On Monday, August 23, 1993, at 1415 eastern daylight time, Mr. James W. Prescott, the pilot a Bellanca 7ECA, N82819, was fatally injured at the Pemi-Riverside Airport, Ashland, New Hampshire. The airplane was not damaged. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed. The flight was being conducted under 14 CFR 91.

The pilot started the engine in preparation for departure, but had not commenced taxiing. Another airplane was conducting an engine run up in front of N82819. A witness, the airport manager, saw Mr. Prescott exit his airplane and walk towards the engine, where he was struck by the propeller.

The Ashland Police Department conducted an investigation, and in a report stated:

It appears other aircraft were being operated at the time of the accident. According to witnesses...an aircraft from the Plymouth Flying Club...was taxiing to the runway. The aircraft taxied by Prescott's aircraft, producing a good amount of dust. This dust was being blown towards Prescott's aircraft. [The witnesses] both stated that Prescott left his aircraft, with the propeller and engine running. He walked into the propeller, coming from the rear of the aircraft towards the front, on the right side facing the propeller.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper decision to leave the airplane unattended with the engine operating.