Incident Overview
During the final approach, the aircraft was observed rolling left and right. It also drifted to the right side of the approach path. Prior to colliding with trees, power was applied. The wind conditions at the time were northwesterly, with speeds exceeding 25 knots.
Witness Statements
A certified flight instructor (CFI) who witnessed the event stated that it appeared the pilot was not properly correcting for drift. Another pilot, who was circling the airport when the accident occurred, reported that the aircraft banked sharply to the right before striking the trees. This pilot further noted that during his own landing attempt, the winds were so strong that he could not complete the landing.
Additional Information
Multiple witnesses provided consistent accounts of the aircraft's behavior. The rolling motion and rightward drift, along with the application of power, preceded the impact with trees. The prevailing northwesterly winds in excess of 25 knots were present throughout the approach.