What happened
While operating a public use airplane over an open field, the pilot was performing a left bank at low altitude in pursuit of a running coyote. The second pilot, acting as a part-time instructor pilot and gunner from the rear seat, was pointing a shotgun out of the aircraft as part of an agency aerial hunting program. During this maneuver, the airplane aerodynamically stalled and entered an uncontrolled descent. The aircraft impacted the ground in a near-vertical, inverted attitude and was destroyed.
The investigation
An examination of the engine and airframe showed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions occurring prior to the impact. However, investigators determined that the aircraft was approximately 75 pounds over its published maximum gross weight. Additionally, the density altitude at the time of the accident was approximately 6,500 feet. The investigation also uncovered unapproved modifications to the aircraft and inadequate maintenance record keeping by the operator. Furthermore, it was noted that the throttle handle for the second pilot was not installed in the throttle control during the accident.