Flight Path and Airspace Violations
The flight initially entered the Tampa Terminal Control Area without clearance. It also entered the Albert Whitted Airport Class D airspace without authorization. Radar observations placed the aircraft 2 miles northeast of the airport. The pilot subsequently made contact with Albert Whitted Tower controllers and received clearance to enter a downwind leg and land on Runway 06.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft on the base leg for Runway 06. They described the aircraft as low, flying at an altitude just above the treetops, and appearing to move at a slow speed. Suddenly, the engine power increased, and the right wing and nose dropped. The aircraft then descended in a nearly vertical nose-down attitude before crashing into a house and the ground.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the wing flaps were in the retracted position. Investigators found no evidence of any airframe, flight control, or engine malfunction. Additionally, a medical examiner found no evidence to indicate pilot incapacitation.