Incident Overview
A student pilot, who is also the owner of the aircraft, reported to police that he was positioning the propeller for a photograph when the engine unexpectedly started. The unattended airplane then traveled approximately 2,500 feet across the airport, became airborne, and struck the rear of a commercial building that housed three businesses, including an auto body shop.
Occupant and Damage Details
Three occupants inside the building evacuated without injury. However, both the airplane and the building were destroyed by the impact, subsequent explosion, and fire. The fire was fueled by aircraft fuel and flammable materials present in the building.
Aircraft Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the throttle and mixture controls were in the open position. However, extensive fire damage precluded a detailed examination of the ignition switch, parking brake, or battery. Investigators noted that the chocks and tie-down ropes had been removed from the aircraft prior to the event.
Pilot Cooperation
The student pilot/owner of the aircraft, registered as N5385F, refused to make a statement to National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) personnel.