Accident Sequence
The airplane struck trees and terrain short of the runway during a landing attempt. The pilot reported encountering turbulence while in the traffic pattern. He stated that the stall warning horn activated, prompting him to add power; however, he was unable to clear the trees. The pilot elected to retract the flaps and hold the airplane's attitude, hoping to either clear the trees or land among them. He did not report any mechanical issues.
Witness Observation
A witness observed the airplane on final approach, noting that it "got very low." The witness estimated the aircraft was no more than 100 feet above the trees as it passed over the eastern shoreline bluff of the island. Subsequently, the airplane executed a steep climbing turn to the left, with a pitch angle of 30 to 40 degrees nose-up. The witness could see the top of both wings before the airplane disappeared from view behind the trees.
Weather Conditions
The wind was reported at 250 degrees at 9 knots, gusting to 19 knots, with direction varying between 210 and 320 degrees. Visibility was restricted by haze.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that could be associated with a pre-impact condition.