What happened
The incident occurred at a location in Catarina, Texas, where an aircraft sustained substantial damage. The event took place during the landing rollout phase. The individual operating the aircraft identified himself as Larry Day from Chattanooga, Tennessee. He stated that he experienced engine trouble which prevented him from extending the landing gear for the final approach and touchdown.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the landing gear system revealed physical damage consistent with the gear being retracted while the aircraft was still moving on the ground. Investigators noted that prior to their arrival, an unknown individual had attempted to raise the aircraft and straighten the propeller blades.
Further inquiry led investigators to Lawrence C. Day of Hixson, Tennessee. He confirmed that someone had been using his name and that the description of this impersonator matched the pilot of N3003P. Despite these findings, efforts to positively identify the actual pilot and any passengers aboard the accident aircraft remained unsuccessful.
Findings
The primary finding was that the landing gear was retracted during landing rollout. This mechanical configuration resulted in the aircraft being supported by its belly rather than its wheels, leading to the observed damage. The investigation also uncovered evidence of deliberate tampering with the aircraft's position and propellers before official investigators could secure the scene.