On May 28, 1995, a Cessna 172N (registration N4773E) operated by Walter L. Wardwell was involved in an aviation accident near Lovelock, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's intentional flight at low altitude and subsequent collision with transmission wires during dusk light conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A witness observed an airplane flying low and paralleling a private crop duster strip before colliding with unmarked electrical power lines at dusk. The wires were about 37 feet above ground level at the point of impact.
Accident Overview
A witness observed an airplane flying in a southerly direction at a low altitude while paralleling a private crop duster strip. The airplane continued past the airstrip at the same low altitude and subsequently collided with electrical power lines. The incident occurred during dusk light conditions.
Power Line Details
According to the power company, the wires involved in the collision are located approximately 1,056 feet from the end of the crop duster strip. At the point of contact, the wires were about 37 feet above ground level. The power lines are not marked with any warning markers or lighting.
Witness Account
The witness reported watching the airplane as it flew past the airstrip at a low altitude before the collision with the electrical wires. No further details about the airplane's trajectory or maneuvers before impact were provided in the source material.
What happened in the 28 May 1995 Cessna 172N accident near Lovelock, NV?
A witness observed an airplane flying low and paralleling a private crop duster strip before colliding with unmarked electrical power lines at dusk. The wires were about 37 feet above ground level at the point of impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 May 1995 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N4773E, operated by Walter L. Wardwell, at Lovelock, NV.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's intentional flight at low altitude and subsequent collision with transmission wires during dusk light conditions.
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