Accident Overview
A pilot departed from Kankakee, Illinois, for a flight to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. The airplane was later observed flying southbound at low altitude over Plainfield, Wisconsin, approximately following Interstate 39.
Witness Accounts
A witness in Plainfield first saw the airplane approaching from the north at an estimated altitude of 200 to 300 feet above ground level. The witness noted that the landing gear was extended. As the airplane continued south, the witness observed the landing gear retract and then extend again. No unusual engine sounds were heard.
Several other witnesses, traveling northbound on Interstate 39 in automobiles, saw the airplane flying southward at an altitude between 100 and 175 feet above ground level, maintaining a path along the interstate. One witness reported that the airplane appeared to be landing. Another witness stated that they saw the airplane hit the power lines, observed visual arcing from the lines, and watched the plane tumble to the ground.
Wreckage Examination
A post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies with the airplane's structure or systems.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not identify a probable cause.