Regulations & Safety
NTSB Preliminary Report on Fatal Pelegrin Tarragon Crash in Arizona
The NTSB released a preliminary report on the fatal crash of an experimental Pelegrin Tarragon aircraft in Arizona, with investigation ongoing.
This article is based on an official preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and public FAA registry data.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released its preliminary report regarding the fatal accident involving an experimental amateur-built Pelegrin Tarragon aircraft in Arizona. The crash, which occurred on February 6, 2026, resulted in the death of the pilot and injuries to a surviving passenger.
According to the NTSB’s findings released on February 18, 2026, the aircraft, registered as N35RR, was destroyed after impacting terrain in a remote desert environment near Shawmut, Arizona. The accident site is located near a railroad siding southeast of Gila Bend in Maricopa County. Investigators confirmed that the flight was operating under Part 91 general aviation rules as a personal flight at the time of the incident.
The release of this preliminary document marks the first official step in an investigation that is expected to continue for at least a year. While the report establishes the factual circumstances gathered at the scene, the NTSB emphasizes that it does not yet determine the probable cause of the tragedy.
The accident occurred at approximately 19:30 (7:30 PM) local time on Friday, February 6. The NTSB report indicates that the aircraft was navigating the Gila Bend area when the crash sequence initiated. Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) prevailed at the time, suggesting that weather may not have been a primary restricting factor, though specific visibility and wind data will likely be analyzed further in the full factual report.
The crash site in Shawmut is characterized by flat, open desert terrain often utilized for general aviation transit. However, the area presents significant challenges for emergency landings due to uneven ground and scrub brush. The aircraft reportedly sustained substantial damage upon impact.
“Preliminary data suggests the aircraft impacted terrain in a remote desert environment. The specific sequence of events leading to the impact is currently under investigation.”
— National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Preliminary Report
Federal investigators are currently examining several critical components of the wreckage. The NTSB has stated that the investigation will focus on the airframe, the flight controls, and the Rotax 915 iS engine (approximately 141 hp) to rule out or identify any pre-impact mechanical anomalies. Additionally, investigators noted that the statement from the surviving passenger will be a “critical component” of the ongoing inquiry. The aircraft involved was a Pelegrin Tarragon, a high-performance tandem-seat ultralight originally designed in Latvia. Known for its carbon-fiber construction and speed capabilities of up to 190 knots, the aircraft is often registered in the United States under the Experimental Amateur-Built category. This classification typically requires the owner to participate significantly in the aircraft’s construction.
According to FAA registry records cited in the report context, the aircraft (N35RR) was registered to Red Baron Snoop Dog LLC based in Lewes, Delaware. The airworthiness certificate was issued in August 2022, listing Robert G. Elves as the manufacturer.
The pilot, identified as Dr. Robert G. Elves, was the sole fatality in the accident. Background information included in the report context describes Elves as a retired U.S. Air Force officer and chemist. He was a recognized member of the aviation community and a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Elves was also known for advocating safety measures, specifically the use of helmets in general aviation cockpits.
The release of a preliminary report is a standard procedure for the NTSB, typically occurring within two weeks of an accident. It serves to inform the public and the aviation industry of the basic facts established on-site. However, stakeholders should note that the investigation is far from complete.
The next major milestone will be the release of the Factual Report, which usually arrives several months later. This document will provide a deep dive into pilot logs, maintenance records, and toxicology results, offering a comprehensive view of the human and mechanical factors involved. The final determination of probable cause is generally not released until the Final Report is completed, a process the NTSB estimates will take between 12 and 24 months.
As the investigation progresses, the NTSB will post publicly available factual data, including photos and witness statements, to its Docket Management System.
NTSB Issues Preliminary Findings on Fatal Experimental Aircraft Crash in Arizona
Crash Timeline and Site Details
Investigative Focus
Aircraft and Pilot Background
Pilot Profile
AirPro News Analysis: The Path to a Final Report
Sources
Photo Credit: NTSB