March 9, 2013, Woodinville, Wash., Maule M-5 Strata Rocket

The airplane was substantially damaged at about 1445 Pacific time when it impacted a residential house following a loss of control while maneuvering at low altitude. The private pilot sustained fatal injuries; the single passenger was seriously injured. Visual conditions existed for the local flight. One witness reported observing the airplane circling at low altitude. A second witness heard a pop sound, then a puff or a sputter and then nothing. The main wreckage was partially inside the garage of a residential home. The airplane initially impacted a van parked on the west side of the home’s driveway with its left wing.

Key Takeaways:

• A private airplane crashed into a residential house due to a loss of control while maneuvering at low altitude.
• The accident resulted in fatal injuries for the pilot, serious injuries for the passenger, and substantial damage to the aircraft.
• Witnesses observed the airplane circling low and heard engine sounds before impact, with wreckage analysis showing the left wing separated.

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