Accident Overview
During a local aerial application flight maneuver, the pilot was watching for wires at the entrance area to the field. The pilot saw the transmission wires and nosed the airplane over to clear them. However, the left wing had 'blanked out a pole and he dove into the pole.' The pilot flew the airplane to the airport after the wire strike.
Landing and Post-Impact Fire
During the landing flare and touchdown, when the pilot reduced power, he lost control of the airplane. The airplane veered to the left, and the left wing struck the ground. The airplane cartwheeled, came to rest in an upright position, and a post-impact fire erupted in the area of the engine fuel lines. Witnesses extinguished the fire.
Damage and Evidence
The left wing tip, aileron, and several feet of the wing were found adjacent to a downed powerline pole. Paint transfer was discovered on the pole. Overcast ceilings and haze were reported in the area at the time of the accident.
Cause
The investigation has not identified a specific probable cause for this accident.