Accident Details
According to witness statements, the accident aircraft was engaged in banner-towing operations during the morning hours. It made a low pass from north to south along the runway and released the banner it was towing. The pilot then added power and initiated a left climbing turn.
Engine Failure and Descent
Witnesses estimated the aircraft was between 50 and 150 feet above ground level when the engine sputtered and quit. Subsequently, the aircraft entered a steep left turn and pitched nose-down toward the ground.
Witness Observations
Throughout the morning, witnesses reported that the aircraft's engine seemed to be consistently running rough, characterized by coughing and sputtering. The engine had been performing in this manner during the banner-towing operations prior to the accident.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination and engine runup were conducted. The inspection revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomaly.