Probable cause
The pilot’s inadequate vigilance while maneuvering at low altitude and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from power lines.
NTSB analysis
Neither the pilot nor the pilot-rated passenger provided written statements about the circumstances of the accident. Witnesses reported that the airplane was maneuvering over a freeway when it struck a series of power lines (about 45 feet above ground level) and subsequently impacted terrain. One witness reported that the airplane was maneuvering “extremely low” to the ground and appeared to be doing several low turns and dives. The witness stated that, the airplane was so low, he could see the passenger’s face through the right front window. The wings, empennage, and fuselage were substantially damaged.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13CA121 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 9, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Sunnyside, Washington
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28-140
- N-number
- N6726J
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.