What happened
On the afternoon of the accident, a modified Douglas DC-3C/BT-67R, registration TZ-389, and a Beech A3/36, registration N3657A, were engaged in a formation flight. The primary objectives of the mission were to accumulate flying hours for the DC-3 and to allow a passenger in the Beech A36 to capture aerial photographs of the larger aircraft. Witnesses observed the two planes flying in close proximity at altitudes between 500 and 700 feet above ground level, traveling in a northerly direction.
According to eyewitness accounts, the DC-3 was maintaining a straight and level flight path while the A36 positioned itself to the west. One witness reported that the A36 performed maneuvers circling the DC-3 both above and below, eventually crossing over the top of the larger aircraft and striking it near the center. Following the collision, debris from both aircraft was observed falling from the sky. The DC-3 was seen banking toward the west and descending, at which point the left wing separated from the fuselage, followed shortly by the loss of the right wing. Fragments of the A36 empennage were recovered at distances ranging from 3,590 to 4,910 feet from the primary wreckage site.
Findings
Investigation into the wreckage revealed that the impact had severed the elevator and rudder control cables of the DC-3. While no mechanical anomalies were detected prior to the collision, an AIRMET had been issued earlier that day, predicting light to moderate turbulence at altitudes below 8,000 feet MSL.
Toxicology analysis of the DC-3 co-pilot's blood revealed the presence of amitriptyline, a prescription antidepressant known for sedative effects, along with its metabolite nortriptyline. Additionally, traces of ephedrine and phenylpropanolamine, which are stimulants found in various over-the-counter medications, were detected in the blood.