Accident Summary
A pilot conducting a cargo flight from Youngstown to Pontiac was killed when his aircraft struck tree tops and crashed in flames. The accident occurred at night after the pilot decided to perform a low pass over his mother's house. The aircraft was destroyed, and the pilot, the sole occupant, was killed. At the time of the accident, the pilot was leading a formation of three aircraft.
Circumstances
The pilot deviated from the planned cargo flight route to make a low pass over his mother's residence. The maneuver was executed during nighttime conditions. During the pass, the airplane collided with tree tops, resulting in a fiery crash. The aircraft was completely destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire. The pilot, who was alone on board, sustained fatal injuries.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a collision with trees after the pilot misjudged clearance. Additionally, contributing factors reported include: exercised poor judgment, unwarranted low flying, and inadequate supervision of flight crew.