Accident Overview
An airplane collided with mountainous terrain and was destroyed in a subsequent ground fire. The pilot had completed several touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings at a departure airport before departing for another airport located about 20 nautical miles (nm) to the north.
Radar Data
Radar data indicated that approximately 13 nm from the intended airport, a target executed a figure eight maneuver while gaining about 875 feet in altitude. After the maneuver, the target continued northward, passed north of the airport, and then turned to the southwest. The last radar return, located 0.51 nm southeast of the wreckage site, showed the target had been traveling in a southwesterly direction for about 4 nm. The airport of intended landing was 5.8 nm east of the accident site.
Weather Conditions
Weather observation facilities within 20 miles of the accident site reported clear skies and moderate wind conditions.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the leading edges of both wings were evenly and symmetrically crushed aft and up. Investigators examined the airplane and engine and found no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure.
Pilot Information
The pilot's injuries precluded any detailed autopsy and limited toxicology testing.