Incident Overview
The airplane was in the landing pattern when it rolled and exhibited exaggerated wing rocking, then descended until it collided with a tree and a residence. The impact was followed by an explosion and fireball.
Sequence of Events
The pilot sequenced for runway 12, but tower personnel thought the pilot was positioning for runway 7. They informed him to follow traffic ahead on final for runway 12 and suggested that he turn to a heading of 300 degrees. The pilot replied "Wilco," and no further transmissions were heard from the airplane. The controller looked away; when he looked back, he saw exaggerated wing rocking as the airplane descended. Witnesses on the ground reported the airplane rolled and exhibited exaggerated wing rocking.
Occupant Accounts
The passenger in the right front seat stated that everything was fine until the pilot executed a steep left bank. He heard the pilot express concern vocally and noticed he was having difficulty controlling the airplane. He stated all three occupants survived the impact sequence. The left side of the airplane ripped open, and flames entered from that side. The front passenger saw the pilot trying to unfasten his seat belt and heard the passenger in the rear seat tell him to hurry and get out. The front passenger was able to exit the airplane and sustained burns on his legs, arms, and face. The passenger in the rear seat had luggage wedged between her legs and the front seat, which hindered her escape.