Accident Sequence
On the day of the accident, the aircraft was engaged in a dual training flight. The accident occurred approximately 30 to 45 minutes after takeoff. According to a student of the certified flight instructor (CFI) who was on board, the area where the crash happened was frequently used by the CFI for airwork. Normally, such airwork was conducted at about 800 ft above ground level (AGL). However, on this particular flight, the aircraft was observed at an altitude estimated to be between 50 and 200 ft AGL.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses provided varying accounts of the engine's operation. Some reported that the engine was running smoothly, while others described it as "spitting and sputtering." Additionally, three witnesses noted that the aircraft's wings were "rocking" from side to side. The aircraft then struck a powerline at an altitude of 69 ft AGL. Following the collision, witnesses reported that the aircraft nosed up and subsequently fell in a near vertical nose-down attitude.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the left fuel tank contained approximately 11 gallons of fuel, while the right tank was empty. The fuel selector was found in the position for the left tank. Control cable continuity was verified from the control surfaces to the impact-damaged area of the cabin, indicating that the control system remained intact up to the point of damage.