Seaplane Crash Caused by Gear Error | Seattle News

Seattle News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 4, 2026 · 1m

A 74-year-old pilot, Alan Williams, crashed his Cessna into Lake Meridian during a planned photo op for a friend’s wedding—killing himself five days later. The NTSB found no mechanical issues; the crash was caused by Williams failing to retract the landing gear before water landing, causing the plane to flip and sink. Witnesses noted the gear was still down at takeoff, and a prior warning system had alerted him to the danger—but he ignored it this time. His family honored his memory, thanking first responders for their lifesaving efforts. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow…