At about 1545 Eastern time, the airplane was substantially damaged during a ditching in the Chesapeake Bay following loss of engine power. Both the airline transport pilot and the passenger successfully exited the airplane. After the ditching, the pilot and passenger attempted to swim to Smith Island; The pilot survived with minor injuries. The passenger was unable to complete the swim and died. Visual conditions prevailed.
The airplane was cruising at 2000 feet msl to remain below an overcast cloud layer when it experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to glide to the nearest land, Smith Island, Maryland, but was unable to reach it. The wreckage was located in 25 feet of water, about two miles west of Smith Island.
