Witness Observations
According to multiple witnesses, the airplane displayed erratic behavior before impacting a corn field. One witness initially heard a backfiring sound from the engine. The witness then saw the airplane approaching from the north at low altitude, heading south toward his residence. As it passed overhead, the airplane turned to the southwest. The witness reported that the aircraft initiated a "fast" left turn and then descended straight down into the corn field.
A second witness observed the airplane flying over their yard at an estimated altitude of 500 to 600 feet above ground level, heading south to southwest while rocking its wings slightly. This witness then saw the airplane initiate a right turn to the west, accompanied by a change in engine sound from banging to a sputter. The airplane continued its turn to the north and began heading back toward the witness.
A third witness stated that he saw the airplane go straight down into the corn field. He also mentioned that the airplane executed "about half a turn" toward the east before impact.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the engine's number 2 cylinder exhaust valve was stuck open. No other findings were reported.