Introduction
An accident involving a private pilot and one passenger occurred while the aircraft was engaged in an aerial search for a missing person in mountainous terrain.
Flight Details
Witnesses observed the aircraft on a westerly heading, flying just above the treetops in the direction of a summit. The airplane was in level flight attitude at that time.
Accident Sequence
According to witness reports, the airplane suddenly banked sharply to the left and entered a steep descent. It subsequently impacted terrain in a nose-low attitude. The wreckage came to rest approximately 50 feet south (downhill) from a series of high-tension power lines.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed a series of parallel scratch marks on both wings. However, no damage was noted to the power lines or their associated support structures. A post-accident examination of the engine, airframe, and associated components found no evidence of a pre-impact mechanical failure or anomaly.
Conclusion
The accident sequence involved a sudden left bank and steep descent from level flight, with the aircraft impacting terrain in a nose-low attitude. Scratch marks on the wings were present near power lines, but the lines themselves were undamaged. The examination did not identify any mechanical issues that could have contributed to the accident.