Engineering and Research 415C — Sandwich, IL

What happened

Numerous witnesses reported that the airplane was flying at a very low altitude just above tree top level as it flew over a small lake and golf course on an easterly heading. The witnesses reported that the engine was sputtering and not operating normally. The airplane hit the tops of some hardwood trees located at the eastern edge of the golf course. The airplane impacted a field in a steep nose down attitude and immediately burst into flames. The inspection of the airframe revealed no preexisting anomalies. The engine inspection revealed drive train continuity and compression on all cylinders. The accessories could not be tested due to impact forces and the post impact fire that consumed much of the engine accessories and airframe. Numerous hardwood tree branches were found at the impact site. Several open fields were located along the flight path that offered suitable landing sites for a forced landing, and that were closer than the field where the airplane was found. Toxicology results were consistent with use of Bupropion, a prescription antidepressant also used for smoking cessation. The medication does not impair flying performance, and though there is an increased risk of seizures with the medication, the circumstances of the accident were not consistent with a seizure event.

An editorial "what led to it / how to avoid it" analysis for this accident is generated separately and will appear here.