Witness Accounts
Multiple witnesses provided observations of the accident sequence. One witness reported that the airplane initially sounded normal, then the engine RPM increased, followed by an explosion and smoke. The same witness observed the airplane during an uncontrolled vertical descent and stated that the airplane exploded approximately 100 feet above the ground.
Another witness observed the airplane descending vertically, losing sight of it just prior to observing fire and smoke. A third witness reported seeing the airplane flying straight and level, then suddenly pitch down. During the descent, this witness observed grey smoke emanating from the airplane.
Physical Evidence
Examination of the burnt wreckage revealed a can of TCP fuel treatment. The filler neck and cap exhibited distortions that did not match. TCP is comprised mainly of toluene, a highly volatile substance. According to available information, fumes from a toluene-based fluid such as TCP could explode during the lighting of a cigarette. The can was kept in the baggage compartment by the owner.
Additionally, eight pieces of windshield plexiglass were found around the impact crater; the remainder of the windshield was not located.