Flight Purpose and Witness Account
The purpose of the accident flight was to search the airport grounds for a windsock that had detached from its mounting due to strong winds earlier in the week. A law enforcement officer who held a commercial pilot certificate witnessed the flight. The witness was familiar with the flight's objective and watched the airplane from takeoff through its descent to ground contact.
Maneuvers and Descent
After departure to the west, the airplane climbed to approximately 200 feet above ground level. It then maneuvered back and forth over the airport at a low altitude and slow speed. The witness observed the aircraft enter a tight, steep, low-speed left bank. The bank angle was estimated to be greater than 45 degrees. While in this turn, the left wing dropped, and the airplane dove directly into the ground.
Engine and Post-Accident Examination
Regarding engine performance, the witness stated that the sound was smooth and continuous, with no interruption from takeoff until ground contact. A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of mechanical deficiency.