Accident Overview
An airplane sustained substantial damage after colliding with power lines and impacting a lake. The aircraft was observed flying at low altitude prior to the accident.
Witness Account
According to a Sheriff's report, a boater on a pontoon witnessed the incident. He reported that the airplane entered the channel and began banking to the right. The wing then struck a power line, causing the airplane to spin and land on its belly on the water. The aircraft subsequently went down nose-first, with only the tail visible five to six feet underwater.
Environmental Conditions
Local weather conditions were clear, with visibility reported at 10 statute miles. No pre-impact anomalies were noted.
Aircraft Equipment
The airplane was not equipped with shoulder harnesses, and such equipment was not required by regulation at the time of the accident.