Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Tree During Low Pass Over Picnic (N8042B)

Oak Grove, WI, US

On September 3, 1984, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N8042B) was involved in an aviation accident near Oak Grove, WI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot who stated he would 'buzz the party' struck a tree while flying between two trees during a low pass, causing the aircraft to impact the ground and catch fire. The two-seat aircraft carried three occupants.

Accident Overview

A two-seat aircraft carrying three occupants was involved in an accident after a low-altitude pass over a picnic. Prior to the flight, the pilot informed the host of the picnic that he planned to "buzz the party a couple of times."

Sequence of Events

Witnesses reported that the aircraft flew over the picnic area twice at a very low altitude. It then climbed, reversed direction, and descended back toward the field. During the descent, the pilot attempted to fly between two trees. However, the left wing of the aircraft struck one of the trees, causing the aircraft to impact the ground and subsequently burn.

Occupants and Aircraft

The aircraft, a two-seat model, was occupied by three people at the time of the accident. The source does not specify injuries or fatalities.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40988. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.