Accident Overview
The accident occurred during a cross-country flight when the airplane collided with flat open desert terrain. The airplane had been en route for 3.8 hours on a 560-nautical-mile trip at the time of the impact. No eyewitnesses observed the accident sequence.
Flight Track Analysis
Investigators extracted recorded track memory from a handheld GPS receiver found in the wreckage. Analysis of the track data showed that the airplane initially flew a straight northerly track, consistent with the pilot's likely planned course. Upon crossing the intersection of two major interstate highways, near a gravel road close to the eventual crash site, the airplane executed a 180-degree turn and flew south for about one mile, crossing an east-west highway before turning back north. It then tracked northward for approximately one mile before performing a 360-degree turn. Subsequently, the airplane proceeded northeast parallel to the east-west highway, then turned right to cross that highway perpendicularly. After reaching the south side, it turned southwest as if to parallel the highway. The track ended at the accident site coordinates.
Wreckage Examination
The main wreckage comprised the entire airplane, which came to rest in an upright attitude. Substantial vertical crush damage was observed, and ground scars began about 55 feet from the resting position. The landing gear and wing flaps were in the retracted position. The propeller displayed evidence consistent with moderate power being developed by the engine. The fuel selector was set to the "ON" position, and approximately 6 gallons of fuel were drained from the left wing. Detailed post-accident examination found no evidence of premishap mechanical malfunctions with the engine or airframe.