Witness Reports
According to witnesses, the airplane was approaching a power line at low altitude when it suddenly entered an abrupt climbing attitude. At the apex of the climb, the left wing dropped, followed by the nose pitching downward. The airplane then crashed in a steep descent.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the wreckage disclosed no preexisting mechanical malfunction or failure. The investigation did not identify any issues with the aircraft's systems or structure that could have contributed to the event.
Pilot Medical History
The investigation revealed that the pilot had a previous medical history including a myocardium infarction, colon cancer, and high blood pressure. However, he had received a medical exemption from the FAA Medical Advisory Panel on November 12, 1993, which allowed him to continue flying despite these conditions.
Pathological Findings
A pathological examination conducted after the accident noted that during impact, the pilot sustained compound fractures of the upper extremities. The nature of these fractures suggested that his hands were holding something in front of his body rather than hanging loose at his sides or in his lap at the time of impact.