On December 12, 1992, a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III (registration N98489) operated by Arthur B. Higgins was involved in an aviation accident near Wilsonville, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot-in-command's failure to maintain control of the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
Witnesses observed an airplane roll inverted and descend in a near-vertical dive. The nose began to rise before striking a 75-foot tree. No evidence of mechanical failure was found. Two occupants were killed.
Accident Sequence
According to witness reports, the airplane was observed flying in a normal cruise attitude. It then rolled inverted, and its nose dropped to a near-vertical orientation toward the terrain. The aircraft descended in a near-vertical dive. Shortly before impact, the nose began to rise horizontally to the ground. The airplane subsequently struck a 75-foot tree.
Investigation Findings
A post-crash investigation was conducted. No evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction was discovered in the wreckage. Examination of the airframe, engine, and systems did not reveal any pre-impact anomalies.
Probable Cause
The investigation concluded that the probable cause of the accident was the pilot-in-command's failure to maintain control of the aircraft.