Flight Events
After takeoff, the pilot requested an immediate return for landing, stating that he smelled smoke or something hot. The aircraft flew a downwind leg for the precautionary landing at an altitude of 200 feet above ground level, maintaining a slow airspeed and flying close to the runway while experiencing a crosswind that was blowing the aircraft toward the runway.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the approach turn steepen to approximately 60 degrees of bank, accompanied by minor pitch and yaw excursions. According to local pilots, winds from the southwest in this area produce turbulence and windshear due to surrounding structures. Subsequently, the nose pitched up abruptly, and the aircraft fell off on the right wing, rolling to a near-vertical attitude before impacting the runway.
Post-Impact Findings
Upon impact, the aircraft was immediately engulfed in fire. Examination of the wreckage revealed the flaps were in the up position. Investigators found no evidence of a pre-impact source of smoke or heat as reported by the pilot.