Accident Overview
A public-use airplane crashed during an aerial hunting operation after entering an aerodynamic stall while maneuvering at low altitude. The accident occurred as the aircraft was engaged in a coyote pursuit over an open field, with both pilots occupying the front and rear seats respectively.
Flight Maneuver and Stall
The first pilot, who was in the second phase of an agency training program, was banking the airplane to the left while flying in close proximity to the ground. The second pilot, serving as a part-time instructor pilot and gunner, was pointing a shotgun outside the airplane in an attempt to kill the running coyote as part of the agency's aerial hunting program. During the maneuver, the airplane aerodynamically stalled and entered an uncontrolled descent. It impacted the ground in a near-vertical, inverted attitude and was destroyed.
Aircraft Condition
An examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions. However, the airplane was about 75 pounds over its published maximum gross weight at the time of the accident. The density altitude was approximately 6,500 feet. Additionally, the investigation found unapproved modifications to the airplane and inadequate maintenance record keeping by the operator. The second pilot's throttle handle was not installed in the throttle control.