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.