BELCOURT, N.D. — Investigators have determined that a mechanical problem caused the hard landing of a small aircraft near an unnamed riverside landing area in Belcourt after the pilot reported engine trouble. All three people aboard were safe after the aircraft came down near the riverbank, with emergency responders arriving in nine minutes.

Marine and aviation safety official Tobias Cardenas said the inquiry found no indication that additional enforcement or corrective action was needed. The finding closes the response to the landing, which drew attention from nearby residents including witness Marcus Lindqvist.