Accident Sequence
Two pilots awaiting takeoff at the approach end of the runway in use observed the accident aircraft. Before the occurrence, one of the pilots reported that the pilot of the accident aircraft advised him that the aircraft had encountered ice during the flight.
The accident aircraft was observed on a tight downwind opposite the touchdown point at about 600 ft above ground level (AGL). At that point, the wings of the aircraft dipped from side to side four or five times. Subsequently, the aircraft made a left, descending turn toward the runway. During the turn, the left wing dropped suddenly, and the aircraft descended to the ground from about 200 to 300 ft AGL.
Post-Accident Observations
One of the first witnesses to arrive at the accident scene, approximately 45 minutes after the occurrence, reported seeing ice on the top of the accident aircraft's wing. A separate witness reported that the temperature at the time of the accident was 38 degrees Fahrenheit.