Incident Overview
A witness reported that while irrigating a newly cultivated corn field with a spray irrigation machine, they heard and then observed an airplane flying through or just over a gap in the trees at the northeast end of the field. The aircraft then proceeded to fly through the irrigation spray and subsequently collided with power lines positioned 37.8 feet above the ground. Following the collision, the airplane became inverted and descended nearly vertically before colliding with the ground.
Witness Account
The witness, who was operating the irrigation equipment, provided the sole eyewitness description of the event. They noted hearing the aircraft before seeing it emerge through the treeline. The airplane continued its path through the water spray from the irrigation machine, which may have obscured visibility, and then struck the overhead power lines.
Post-Impact Examination
After the accident, an examination of the engine revealed that it was capable of providing adequate power for flight. No other mechanical anomalies were reported. The inverted, near-vertical descent indicates a loss of control following the power line strike.
Site Conditions
The accident occurred over a cultivated corn field equipped with a spray irrigation system. The power lines involved were measured at a height of 37.8 feet above ground level. The gap in the trees at the northeast end of the field was the likely point of entry for the aircraft into the area.