Beachgoers on a South Carolina shoreline were left terrified after a small aircraft flew dangerously close to people and homes, prompting witnesses to fear an imminent crash. The pilot later claimed he experienced mechanical problems during the flight, but investigators questioned his explanation, leading to criminal charges and his eventual arrest.
Pilot Arrested After Low Flight Over South Carolina Beach
William Roger Williamson III, 50, was arrested after authorities investigated a flight that allegedly put beachgoers and nearby residents at risk.
According to the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office, Williamson was taken into custody on May 26 in connection with an incident that occurred in early April near Pawleys Island, South Carolina.
He was later charged with breach of peace, aggravated in nature, and was released after posting a $5,000 bond.
The incident quickly attracted attention due to eyewitness accounts describing a plane flying alarmingly close to people on the beach.
Beachgoers Thought Plane Was About to Crash
Witnesses reported a frightening scene as the single-engine aircraft approached the shoreline.
One beachgoer told local media that the plane appeared to head directly toward people relaxing near the water. According to witnesses, many individuals jumped from their beach chairs and ran for safety because they believed the aircraft was about to crash.
Several people described the plane’s movements as resembling a dive toward the beach.
The sudden approach caused panic among those nearby and raised concerns about public safety.
Aircraft Reportedly Came Close to Homes
In addition to alarming beach visitors, witnesses said the aircraft appeared to pass dangerously close to beachfront houses.
Some observers claimed the plane nearly clipped a row of homes situated along the shoreline.
The reports prompted authorities and federal aviation officials to examine what occurred during the flight and whether aviation regulations were violated.
Fortunately, no injuries or property damage were reported.
Officials Witnessed Incident Firsthand
Among those present on the beach during the incident were local officials, including Pawleys Island Town Councilman Mark Hawn and Pawleys Island Police Chief Michael Fanning.
Their presence added credibility to witness accounts and helped authorities gather information about what happened.
One observant beachgoer was also able to record the aircraft’s tail number, which investigators later used to identify Williamson as the pilot.
That information played a significant role in advancing the investigation.
Pilot Claimed Mechanical Problems
When contacted by a Federal Aviation Administration investigator, Williamson reportedly explained that the aircraft experienced mechanical difficulties.
According to the incident report, he claimed ice had formed on one of the plane’s carburetors while he was attempting to deice the system. He also said a control knob unexpectedly detached during the process.
Williamson maintained that the plane briefly dipped before he managed to regain control and stabilize the aircraft.
His explanation became a key focus of the investigation.
FAA Investigator Questioned Explanation
Federal aviation officials reportedly expressed doubts about Williamson’s version of events.
According to reports, investigators noted that pilots are trained to keep an aircraft directed toward open water or parallel to the shoreline when preparing for a possible emergency landing near a beach.
Officials reportedly questioned why the aircraft appeared to move toward people and structures rather than away from them.
The FAA’s concerns contributed to further scrutiny of the incident.
Failure to Respond Led to Arrest Warrant
Following the investigation, the FAA sent Williamson a letter requesting a response within 30 days.
Reports indicate that he did not respond to the agency’s request before the deadline expired.
As a result, authorities sought legal action, and a judge ultimately approved an arrest warrant.
Williamson later turned himself in to law enforcement and was formally charged.
Investigation Raises Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked discussion about aviation safety near populated recreational areas.
Low-altitude flights over beaches can create serious risks for both pilots and people on the ground, particularly when mechanical issues or unexpected manoeuvres occur.
Although no one was injured in this case, witnesses described the event as one of the most frightening experiences they had encountered while visiting the beach.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of following established aviation safety procedures.
