Flight Description
According to reports, the pilot, a geologist, was on a flight to inspect rock formations. Prior to the accident, the aircraft was observed flying up a canyon at low altitude and low airspeed. Two witnesses positioned on a rocky cliff at approximately 3,500 feet mean sea level (MSL) reported seeing the plane pass below their elevation, just above the tree tops. The witnesses were located about three-quarters of a mile from the accident site.
Accident Site
The aircraft crashed on a 35-degree rising slope situated between two parking lots at a ski lodge. The elevation of the accident site was determined to be about 4,500 feet MSL.
Post-Accident Inspection
An inspection of both the engine and the airframe revealed no evidence of any preimpact malfunction or failure.