FATAL GYROPLANE CRASH WITH POST-CRASH FIRE: FIRST REPORTED CASE IN SLOVAKIA

F. Babiak, M. Janik, V. Rybarova, M. Sokol, R. Sivulic, L. Straka

Abstract: Gyroplanes are lightweight, rotor-driven sport aircraft generally regarded as stable and safe when operated under appropriate conditions. However, accidents involving gyroplanes, particularly those resulting in post-impact fires, can present significant challenges for forensic investigation. This case report describes a rare fatal gyroplane crash in Slovakia in which the aircraft was destroyed by fire, and the only human remains recovered consisted of a severely charred body part. The extent of thermal destruction precluded visual identification and conventional autopsy analysis. Toxicological screening revealed no substances of forensic interest, and a carboxyhemoglobin concentration of 5.3% suggested the decedent did not inhale combustion gases, indicating death occurred prior to the onset of fire. The most probable cause of death was determined to be trauma-induced hemorrhagic shock sustained in the crash. This case highlights the importance of multidisciplinary forensic approaches, combining scene investigation and aviation records, in reconstructing fatal aviation events and identifying victims when remains are severely degraded by fire.
Keywords: gyroplane, aviation accident, post-crash fire, ultralight aircraft, autopsy.