Primary finding
Probable cause
The inflight fire and impact with terrain for reasons that could not be determined due to extensive fire damage.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to information provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the airplane was observed to be on fire before crashing short of an airpark. The fire continued postimpact and consumed the entire airplane. The non-certificated pilot suffered serious injuries and was hospitalized. The pilot’s family was not able to provide aircraft or pilot records and the pilot’s flight experience could not be substantiated. The FAA reported that the extensive fire damage precluded a thorough examination of the airplane and engine. The reason for the inflight fire and subsequent impact with terrain could not be determined.