What happened
Two separate witnesses observed the aircraft operating at an extremely low altitude in the vicinity of overhead powerlines. According to their accounts, the pilot was flying and maneuvering at approximately 15 to 20 feet above ground level (AGL) while passing close to the utility infrastructure.
Following the incident, the pilot stated that he could not recall the specific events leading up to the crash. He speculated that the engine might have quit during the operation. However, subsequent mechanical evaluation revealed that the engine operated normally when test-run after recovery.
The investigation
Investigative efforts included interviews with eyewitnesses who documented the low-altitude flight path. A post-accident inspection of the aircraft's propulsion system was conducted to rule out mechanical failure as the primary factor.
Findings
The pilot's inability to recall the sequence of events, combined with witness testimony of hazardous low-level flying near obstacles, suggests a loss of situational awareness or control. The normal operation of the engine during post-accident testing indicates that mechanical failure was not the cause of the event.