What happened
The aircraft was engaged in a cross-country flight with the destination of Rock Springs, Wyoming. While maneuvering within a bowl or canyon area, the aircraft impacted the terrain at a point approximately 500 feet below the local ridgeline. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was positioned on the lee side of the ridgeline.
Environmental conditions at the nearest reporting facility indicated surface winds of fifteen knots. These winds were blowing approximately perpendicular to the ridgeline, likely contributing to turbulent air currents in the canyon environment where the impact occurred.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that a fire consumed approximately 10 acres of forest following the initial impact. The wreckage location and terrain damage confirmed the aircraft struck the ground while in flight during the maneuvering phase of the operation.