What happened
During an arrival sequence at the airport, a Piper PA-31T registered in the Federal Republic of Germany was cleared to enter a right-hand traffic pattern for runway 32R. The aircraft was instructed to follow a Decathlon that was already landing on the same runway. While transitioning onto the base leg, the aircrew failed to respond to an inquiry from the tower regarding whether they had the preceding aircraft in sight.
As the flight continued, the aircraft was observed overshooting its turn toward the final approach course for runway 32R. Eyewitnesses described the aircraft performing a slow, erratic, and nose-high turn at a low altitude before entering a right-hand, nose-down spin. The aircraft subsequently struck a ground structure and caught fire. The impact caused significant damage to five nearby automobiles. All six fatalities occurred among the occupants of the aircraft.
Findings
Post-accident investigations determined that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions present prior to the crash. The investigation identified several contributing factors related to the pilot in command, including an improper planned approach and diverted attention. Additionally, the crew failed to maintain necessary airspeed, which led to an inadvertent stall and spin. The aircraft's descent concluded with a collision involving a nonresidential building.