What happened
The flight began with takeoff from a lake surface, oriented directly into the wind. Shortly after becoming airborne, the pilot initiated a left turn while flying over the adjacent lake shore. During this maneuver, the aircraft descended and ultimately collided with the water.
The pilot provided an explanation for the loss of control, attributing the incident to aerodynamic conditions created by the local terrain. Specifically, the pilot reported that downslope winds flowing over nearby hills and trees caused a sudden loss of lift. As the aircraft turned left, this condition led to a stall of the left wing, which directly resulted in the crash.
The investigation
The primary source of information regarding the mechanics of the accident is the pilot's statement. No physical examination of the wreckage or mechanical components was detailed in the provided narrative. The investigation relied on the pilot's account of the wind conditions and the aircraft's aerodynamic response to those conditions.
Findings
Several factors contributed to the accident sequence. The takeoff environment involved complex wind patterns influenced by topography. The interaction between the aircraft and the downward wind currents over the shoreline was critical. The pilot identified a stall as the immediate cause of the loss of control during the left turn.