Narrative of the Accident
Witnesses observed an airplane during a climb-out that was at an unusually low altitude. The airplane entered a steep left bank of approximately 70 to 75 degrees. During the turn, the airplane lost altitude steadily until the left wing contacted the water. After the splash, the airplane came out upright.
Witness Accounts
One witness stated that she first heard the airplane and then turned to watch it climb out. She noted that the airplane's altitude was lower than normal, describing it as "half as high as the normal flight traffic going on." She saw the airplane enter a steep left bank, and as it turned toward her, she could see the bottom of the airplane. She observed the airplane lose altitude steadily through the turn until the left wing contacted the water. She reported a splash, but not an overly large one, and that the airplane then came out upright.
Another witness reported that the airplane "was way low. Usually, they are five times higher." He saw the right wing go up and heard the engine sound go silent. The airplane disappeared behind trees, and then he heard a thud. He estimated the entire event lasted 6 to 8 seconds.
Survivor Information
The pilot and the passenger in the right rear seat survived the accident. Both sustained head injuries and have no memory of the accident.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies.