The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with terrain when the airplane exited the runway during an aborted landing. The instructor reported, "The aircraft turned final and flew a slightly low and fast approach to the runway. The aircraft touched down flat on the runway and because of the excess speed the aircraft bounced into the air a considerable amount. At this point the landing was aborted. As the power was advanced the aircraft began a left turn and drifted off the runway. At this point the instructor called for complete control of the aircraft and returned to wings level pitch attitude; however, despite the application of full power the aircraft refused to climb and touched down right main first on the grass to the north side of the runway. The aircraft then swung nose right shearing off the nose gear and left main gear causing the propeller to strike the ground." The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions associated with the airplane in reference to the flight. An examination of the wreckage revealed that the flight controls were operational and correct and that the engine controls were operational.

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident as follows: