Accident Overview
A Piper PA-28-140 aircraft, returning to its original departure airport after conducting stop-and-go landings at two other airports, was involved in an accident while entering the traffic pattern. Another pilot, who entered the traffic pattern at the same time, heard the accident pilot transmit that he was turning onto the left base leg for the active runway. No further transmissions were heard from the accident airplane.
Pre-Impact Observations
Moments before the accident, the airplane was observed just above the tops of trees before passing over a house while turning to the left. Witnesses then reported that the engine sounded like it "turned off," followed by the sound of a thump.
Wreckage Discovery
A local resident ventured into the woods and discovered the wreckage of the airplane. She did not smell any gasoline and found the pilot lying near the fuselage.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact malfunction of the airframe or engine. The propeller exhibited signatures consistent with a low rpm (windmilling) event. The left wing was separated from its attachment fittings and was found leading edge down, leaning against a tree. One to two gallons of fuel were discovered in the forward portion of the left fuel tank. The right wing's fuel tank was breached and void of fuel; no fuel staining was observed on the ground surrounding the tank, and no smell of fuel was detected at the site. The fuel selector was found in the left tank position.