Incident Overview
On February 23, 1986, at 1621 Eastern Standard Time, a Cessna 172L (registration N7191Q) was involved in an accident while attempting a go-around at Gordonsville Airport in Gordonsville, Virginia. The flight, which was conducted under visual meteorological conditions, originated from Charlottesville, Virginia earlier that day. No flight plan had been filed for the pleasure flight.
Witness Account
A witness, James Chumm, observed the aircraft's approach and reported that it was high and fast. As power was increased for what he believed was a go-around attempt, the engine was heard to backfire several times. The witness then saw the aircraft descending into a field, where its left wing struck a tree. The aircraft subsequently flipped over and came to rest inverted.
Damage and Injuries
The aircraft sustained substantial damage. The student pilot on board received minor injuries.