Incident Sequence
During cruise flight, a student pilot reported that the airplane collided with a bird. The pilot stated that rudder control was not operating after the collision. Subsequently, during a forced landing on a highway, the airplane collided with a transmission wire.
Subsequent Reports and Findings
It was noted that there was no evidence of a bird strike. The pilot then changed his account, stating that the airplane collided with a parachutist. However, no reports of a missing person or incident in the area were found. The pilot later stated that the airplane collided with something.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of the aircraft revealed a round gouge on the top one-third of the vertical stabilizer. The stabilizer was bent slightly to the left side, which partially jammed the movement of the rudder.
Witness Statement
The student pilot was carrying a passenger who stated that he was asleep and had no knowledge of the accident.
Reporting Issues
The student pilot did not file an accident report.