Overview
An accident occurred when an aircraft struck a power line while flying northbound along a railroad track. The aircraft subsequently came to rest in an inverted attitude adjacent to the tracks.
Witness Accounts
Approximately three miles south of the crash site, a witness observed the aircraft flying northbound along the railroad track. The witness reported that the aircraft was flying below treetop level and that the engine was running smoothly. A short time later, another witness approximately one and a half miles further north also saw the aircraft heading north. This witness reported that the aircraft's altitude was slightly above the level of the trees.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft struck a power line that crossed the railroad track at about 50 feet above ground level (AGL). After the impact, the aircraft came to rest next to the tracks in an inverted position.
Investigation Findings
No discrepancies were found that would have resulted in a preimpact loss of power. The engine operated normally until the moment of impact.