Incident Overview
A Mooney M20C, registration N2763W, was conducting a dual instructional flight and was inbound to an uncontrolled airport following the VOR final approach course of 119 degrees at an altitude of 2,000 feet. Simultaneously, a Piper PA-28, registration N7416R, had departed the same airport, turned northwest, and climbed to 2,000 feet. The two aircraft collided approximately 2 miles northwest of the airport.
Pilot Accounts
One of the pilots aboard the Mooney described the collision as "a shadow appeared on the right and crashing noise as the cabin ripped open." The pilot of the Piper reported hearing a "loud bang on the left side of the engine compartment and I saw cowl badly mangled." No evasive action was taken by any of the pilots prior to the collision.
Aircraft Damage and Post-Collision Events
The Mooney was unable to maintain flight after the collision and executed a forced landing in an open field. Examination of the Mooney revealed separation of the upper fuselage, top vertical stabilizer, and rudder. The Piper pilot was able to continue flying and returned to the departure airport. Examination of the Piper's firewall disclosed that the Mooney's rudder balance weight was embedded in it.
Examination Findings
Post-accident inspection of both aircraft confirmed the damage consistent with the collision. The Mooney's rudder balance weight was found embedded in the Piper's firewall, indicating the point of impact. No further details on weather, time of day, or ATC involvement were provided in the source.