Incident Overview
An aircraft being used for animal control operations sustained damage after nosing over on a frozen, snow-covered lake. The pilot had been executing a low pass over the lake surface in pursuit of a coyote.
Sequence of Events
During the low pass, the gunner's weapon jammed, causing the pilot to divert his attention toward the direction of the weapon's muzzle, which was pointed at a fuel tank. Immediately thereafter, the aircraft's wheels made contact with the snow-covered surface, leading the aircraft to nose over.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the incident, an overcast sky limited available visual references. The smooth, even surface of the frozen lake lacked features that could enhance the pilot's depth perception.