Incident Overview
A pilot reported that he performed a low pass over a private airstrip adjacent to a lake but could not recall the accident sequence. Witnesses in boats stated that the aircraft flew low over the airstrip and then continued over the lake surface at an estimated altitude of 50 feet above ground level. The aircraft traveled about one mile over the water before initiating a turn. During the turn, the left wingtip contacted the water, and the aircraft cartwheeled into the lake.
Witness Observations
One witness, an FAA airframe and powerplant mechanic who works on general aviation aircraft, reported that the engine sounded strong and normal from the time the aircraft left the airstrip until it crashed into the lake. The witnesses noted that the lake surface was glassy smooth.
Post-Accident Examination
The airframe wreckage was recovered from the lake. Examination confirmed control system continuity. The engine separated from the airframe during the impact sequence and was not recovered.