Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that after entering the traffic pattern on the downwind leg, he noticed a motor glider on the runway. He continued descending to land while keeping an eye on it, but allowed himself to get low in the traffic pattern. He compensated by cutting the pattern short. As he approached the edge of the runway, he attempted to pull the flaps all the way back to clear some particularly tall trees, but mistakenly pulled the spoiler handle. The glider then impacted with trees.
Post-accident Findings
The responding FAA accident inspector found the glider suspended by pine trees, about 30 feet above the ground in about a 60-degree nose low attitude. The tail section was broken away from the fuselage and there was extensive damage to both wings. The inspector also found the spoilers deployed and the flaps in the fully retracted position.
Pilot Statement
The pilot's statement described the sequence of events leading to the accident, including the distraction of the motor glider on the runway and the incorrect control input.