Overview
A non-instrument rated private pilot completed a 1.3-hour dark night cross-country flight. The airplane was observed by two witnesses attempting to execute an apparent go-around on runway 13, which has a length of 5,100 feet. The witnesses saw the aircraft make a right turn near midfield, after which the nose of the airplane dropped towards the ground. Evidence at the accident site showed that the airplane impacted the ground in a nose-low attitude, and a post-impact fire ensued.
Witness Reports
Two witnesses provided accounts of the event. They reported that the airplane was attempting a go-around on runway 13. They observed a right turn near the middle of the runway, and then the nose of the airplane dropped toward the ground.
Physical Evidence
Site examination revealed ground scars from the main landing gear tires located 1,266 feet short of the landing threshold for runway 13. Additionally, five light poles were found knocked down short of the landing threshold. This physical evidence indicates that the airplane had landed short of runway 13, impacted the approach lighting system, executed a go-around, and subsequently impacted the ground.
Examination
Flight control continuity was established. No anomalies were found with the airframe or engine during examination.