Accident Overview
A student pilot had rented the aircraft involved in the accident, and records indicated he had flown the same aircraft on previous occasions. The pilot acting as instructor did not possess a current instructor certificate. There were no witnesses to the crash, but the aircraft was observed maneuvering in turns at about 800 feet above ground level (AGL) shortly before the mishap, with sounds of power changes.
Impact and Post-Crash Fire
Investigation revealed that impact occurred with the aircraft in an approximately 25-degree nose-down, wings-level attitude, while in powered flight. The aircraft was demolished by a post-crash fire.
Examination of Aircraft Systems
No evidence was found of a preimpact failure or malfunction of the flight controls. An engine teardown revealed no indication of an engine malfunction.