Report cites pilot error in death of Gunnery Sgt. James W. Speedy
According to the United States Marine Corp., the cause of the helicopter crash killing Guernsey County native Gunnery Sgt. James Speedy was due to pilot error.
The MV-22B Osprey with a call sign of 'Ghost 31' went down near Bodø, Norway, on March 18, 2022, according to a report released recently. The Osprey carried four U.S. Marines on board: aircraft commander Capt. Matthew J. Tomkiewicz, co-pilot Capt. Ross A. Reynolds, crew chief Cpl. Jacob M. Moore and Speedy.
Data from mission recorders found at the crash site allowed review and analysis of a number of factors, including aircrew readiness and external and environmental factors. The results determined the cause to be deemed pilot error. Currently, no recommendations for disciplinary or punitive action have been taken for any service members.
On the date of the incident, the Opsrey took part in a training flight. After refueling at the base, the aircrew headed out to the south of Bodo. For an unknown reason, the crew deviated from the authorized flight and flew into the Gråtådalen Valley around 4:22 p.m. Officials estimate the crash occurred at 4:23 p.m. and was due to a series of maneuvers conducted at a low altitude that exceeded the aircraft banking abilities. The service member that was in control of the aircraft at the time is not known.
The investigation concluded that there were no indications of an issue prior to taking off. Weather conditions were within allowable parameters, the crew was knowledgeable and qualified for the assignment and no defects or issues with the aircraft were found.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Report released on Speedy death
