What happened
The aircraft was executing a touch-and-go landing maneuver when it struck overhead transmission wires. The impact occurred approximately 926 feet from the runway threshold at an altitude of about 27 feet above ground level. Following the collision, the aircraft continued its trajectory toward an open field before crashing.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site revealed that several gallons of fuel had drained from the aircraft after the impact. Investigators noted that weather conditions were conducive to carburetor icing at the time of the event. Further inspection determined that the carburetor heat control was found in a partially open position.
Findings
The primary contributing factor identified was the presence of carburetor icing. The partial opening of the carburetor heat control likely reduced its effectiveness in preventing ice accumulation within the carburetor, leading to engine performance issues during the critical phase of flight.