What happened
While operating within the airport traffic pattern, a pilot in a single-engine aircraft was providing regular position updates via the common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF). Approximately 10 miles from the airfield, the pilot of a multi-engine aircraft initiated radio contact on the same frequency, stating an intention to execute a straight-in approach.
Although both pilots continued to broadcast their positions, there was no direct communication between the two aircraft until the multi-engine plane was roughly one mile from the airport and the single-engine plane had transitioned to the base leg of the pattern. Upon recognizing that the multi-engine aircraft was on a converging path, the pilot of the single-engine plane attempted a go-around. However, the two aircraft collided during the final approach, at an altitude of approximately 150 feet above ground level.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of both aircraft showed no mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have prevented standard operation. Investigation of the multi-engine aircraft showed that the landing gear and wing flaps remained in the retracted position, suggesting the pilot did not complete the necessary configuration for landing. Data regarding the flight path indicated the multi-engine aircraft maintained a ground speed of roughly 180 knots during the approach, a factor that likely decreased the window for visual separation and collision avoidance.
Toxicology results for the pilot of the single-engine aircraft showed trace amounts of THC, cocaine, and ketamine, while the pilot of the multi-engine aircraft tested positive for THC and its metabolites. Investigators determined that these low levels of substances were not contributing factors to the accident.