Accident Sequence
According to witness reports, the pilot initiated a low-altitude, high-speed pass over the runway, a maneuver he had performed on several previous occasions. However, during the pass, the descent toward the runway was not arrested, and the aircraft struck the runway near the threshold in a pancake-like impact. The aircraft then bounced back into the air and continued flying just above the runway in a gradual right turn. After traveling approximately 1,200 feet, it crashed into a plowed field adjacent to the runway.
Examination Findings
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of a preexisting mechanical malfunction or failure. A pathological examination of the pilot disclosed no medical condition that would have resulted in the accident.
Additional Details
The aircraft was not equipped with a shoulder harness.