The Tribune

Human remains belonging to Captain Clayton Patterson Smith were today discovered by divers in the wreckage of the Piper PA-32 after the three-day search ended in tragedy.

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) confirmed the news and extended condolences to the family.

Mr Smith, a 53-year-old father-of-three, disappeared on Sunday while flying solo from Exuma to New Providence. At around 3pm, Mr Smith made a distress call to Air Traffic Control before losing contact 30 nautical miles south of New Providence.

Yesterday, parts of an aircraft were salvaged by a team of divers, including his son Clayron.

National Security Minister Myles LaRoda today confirmed human remains have been found in the wreckage.

Aviation Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis later expressed personal condolences to the family of Mr Smith in a statement from The Ministry of Energy Utilities and Aviation, confirming the remains belonged to the missing pilot.

The AAIA offered its ‘heartfelt condolences’ for those affected by the tragic event, while also expressing gratitude to the local search and rescue teams as well as the Royal Bahamas Defense Force for their efforts.

AAIA investigations are still ongoing and a preliminary report that entails ‘solely verified data’ will be completed and published within 30 days.

The AAIA will release the final report detailing ‘facts, analysis, findings and a probable cause 12 months from the date of occurrence.'