Location and Terrain
An aircraft crashed approximately six miles west of Livingston, Montana. The wreckage was found on a ridge with an elevation of 5,300 feet, where the aircraft struck about 50 feet below the ridge crest. At the time of impact, the aircraft was in a 20-degree climb attitude.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at Livingston included a broken ceiling at 900 feet, an overcast layer at 2,500 feet, visibility of 10 miles, and wind at 12 knots. Mountains to the west were obscured.
Witness Account
Shortly before the crash, a witness observed the aircraft flying below the cloud cover at an estimated altitude of 300 to 400 feet above ground level. The witness lost sight of the plane but heard it turn. Subsequently, the witness heard the crash and the cessation of engine sound.
Evidence at Scene
Investigators found propeller strike marks just prior to the principal impact point, indicating contact with terrain before the main collision.