Accident Summary
A Boeing A-75N (Stearman PT-17) aircraft, with two pilots on board, impacted water following a series of maneuvers. The aircraft was observed by multiple witnesses, both on the ground and in the air.
Witness Accounts
Ground witnesses reported that the airplane completed a loop and then struck the water in a nose-low attitude. An airborne witness described the airplane as being in a steep left turn, entering a left spin, recovering, and then striking the water in a nose-low, wings-level attitude.
Aircraft Examination
Post-impact examination of the airplane revealed structural damage consistent with a high-energy impact. The upper wings were bent forward, and the lower wings were bent rearward. The landing gear had separated aft, and the engine mounts were pulled out on the top and buckled on the bottom. All flight control cables were found attached; the elevator push/pull tube was fractured at a bend behind the cockpit. Examination of the engine and airframe found no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was stated in the investigation report.