Accident Overview
A pilot obtained fuel before departing on a cross-country flight. Two witnesses on the ground reported hearing and seeing the airplane approaching their location at an estimated altitude of 100 to 200 feet above the trees.
Witness Observations
One witness stated that the airplane's engine was heard to increase in power, then decrease, and then increase again. Another witness reported that the engine was making a popping sound while cutting in and out. The airplane was observed to make a steep right turn, during which the right wing became perpendicular to the ground. Subsequently, the nose of the airplane pitched down, and the airplane disappeared from view.
Aircraft Performance Reference
According to the Flight Manual, the airplane will stall at 98 MPH without extended flaps at a 60-degree bank angle.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the crash site revealed that the right main fuel cap tab was secured, while the left main fuel cap tab was in the open position. Examination of the airframe and engine assembly revealed no anomalies.