What happened
During a third attempt to execute a VOR Runway 14 approach, the pilot reported having the airport in sight after receiving updated landing information. The approach was being conducted with a minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 1,620 feet MSL, while the airport elevation sat at 1,297 feet.
An air traffic controller monitoring the radar observed the aircraft descending to 1,400 feet. During this descent, the controller noted the aircraft's landing light oscillating and the nose of the plane pitching upward. Simultaneously, an eyewitness on the ground reported seeing the aircraft at a low altitude and observed the pilot attempting to pull the aircraft up. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck a static power line cable located roughly 2 miles from the runway approach end. The cable was positioned at an altitude of approximately 1,382 feet MSL, which was about 85 feet above the ground.
Findings
Investigations into the incident revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunctions regarding the engine, the aircraft, or the VOR equipment prior to the impact. The primary factor in the accident was the collision with a power line cable during the approach phase.