What happened
During aerial spraying operations, a witness observed the accident airplane descend behind a tree line. Shortly after the descent, the witness noted smoke rising from behind the trees. The area was subsequently inspected, revealing impact marks and cuts on the vegetation. The aircraft ultimately impacted terrain located 130 degrees from and 300 feet away from the initial point of contact with the tree line. Following the collision, the airplane caught fire and burned completely.
The investigation
Investigators examined the site where the aircraft had come to rest. The inspection of the tree line confirmed physical evidence consistent with an impact, including distinct marks and cuts in the vegetation. The final resting place of the wreckage was determined to be 300 feet from the initial point of contact with the trees, at a bearing of 130 degrees relative to that initial impact site.
Findings
The sequence of events indicates that the aircraft lost altitude during low-level operations. The pilot sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. The aircraft was destroyed by fire following the impact with the terrain and vegetation.