Observed 'Flying At Low Altitude And Performing “Ag-Type Maneuvers”'

Location: Seagraves, TX Accident Number: CEN22FA211
Date & Time: May 24, 2022, 07:00 Local Registration: N78466
Aircraft: Piper PA-12 Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On May 24, 2022, about 0700, a Piper PA-12 airplane, N78466 sustained substantial damage when it was involved in an accident near Seagraves, Texas. The pilot sustained fatal injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to local authorities and family acquaintances, the pilot had been flying in the local area for several weeks with aspirations to become an agricultural pilot. During those weeks, the airplane had been observed by several local persons to be flying at low altitude and performing “ag-type maneuvers” over the fields. The airplane wreckage was located by a farmer about 1150, and there were no witnesses to the accident.

Postaccident examination of the accident site revealed the airplane impacted the terrain in a nose and right-wing low attitude. The initial ground scar was consistent with the propeller, engine, forward fuselage, left and right wings. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, wings, and empennage.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov