On October 14, 1990, a Cessna 172P (registration N99862) was involved in an aviation accident near Williamsburg, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to engage in a low-level maneuver during a police pursuit, which resulted in loss of control and collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft engaged in a police pursuit entered a low-level left turn near power lines, pitched up, and crashed into terrain, resulting in a post-impact fire.
What happened
The aircraft was actively involved in a police chase at the time of the incident. Observers noted the plane executing a low-level left turn as it approached a zone containing electrical power lines. During this maneuver, the pilot appeared to pitch the nose up abruptly, causing the aircraft to depart controlled flight. The uncontrolled descent led directly into the terrain.
The investigation
Following the impact, a significant fire broke out and consumed major portions of the aircraft structure. The severity of the burn damage made detailed mechanical inspection difficult, but the sequence of events was clearly established by witness accounts of the final moments of flight.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to engage in a low-level maneuver during a police pursuit, which resulted in loss of control and collision with terrain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Oct 1990 Cessna 172P accident near Williamsburg, IA?
An aircraft engaged in a police pursuit entered a low-level left turn near power lines, pitched up, and crashed into terrain, resulting in a post-impact fire.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Oct 1990 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N99862, at Williamsburg, IA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to engage in a low-level maneuver during a police pursuit, which resulted in loss of control and collision with terrain.
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