Incident Description
While en route, the captain observed a car trailing smoke along a dirt road and decided to descend to investigate. After overflying the car, the captain continued flying at low level over the road. The first officer then issued a warning about wires ahead. The captain was unable to react in time to avoid striking the wires.
Post-Collision Actions
Following the collision, the captain elected to continue to the destination. During the approach, the crew heard a loud thud and the left engine began shaking. The captain reduced power and declared an emergency. After a positive visual gear check by the tower, the captain landed the aircraft. The crew shut down the left engine while taxiing to the ramp.
Damage and Evidence
Broken sections of wire were found embedded in the forward fuselage and vertical stabilizer. The tip of one blade was missing from the left propeller, and the nose section was shattered. Neither of the ground witnesses reported any malfunction with their vehicles during the time of the incident.
Conclusion
The event involved a low-level flight to investigate a smoke-trailing car, resulting in a wire strike, subsequent engine vibration, and a precautionary emergency landing.