Accident Overview
A pilot borrowed an aircraft to transport a musical group to Kalispell for a private engagement in Lakeside, Montana, approximately 15 miles south of the airport. After the engagement, the group boarded the aircraft for the return flight. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at low altitude near the performance venue. The aircraft entered an abrupt climb, then performed a wingover or hammerhead stall maneuver, reversed direction, and subsequently crashed into wooded terrain during the dive.
Witness Observations
Multiple witnesses reported that the engines appeared to be running normally throughout the flight. The aircraft was seen at very low altitude before the abrupt climb and subsequent maneuver.
Toxicology Findings
A postmortem test of the pilot's blood indicated a slight amount of alcohol; however, investigators noted indications that this was due to putrefaction rather than consumption prior to the accident.
Occupants
All 10 occupants were killed in the crash. Among them were six members of the 'Montana Band'—Curt Bergeron, Clifford Tipton, Allen Larson, Grady Whitfield, Terry Robinson, Dale Anderson—and Tom Sawan, along with the band's manager.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the phase of operation as maneuvering during a turn to reverse direction. Findings included poor judgment by the pilot in command, performance of buzzing, an ostentatious display, and attempted aerobatics. Additionally, proper altitude was not maintained, and the investigation cited overconfidence in personal ability and overconfidence in the aircraft's ability.