[machogirl]

I’m lost. Something either catastrophic happened, or for whatever reason, they had no idea exactly where they were with respect to the runway. (i know next to nothing and haven’t flown on a plane in 30 years)

[machogirl]

according to reuters (quoting spokesperson for mayor), no distress calls were made to the tower.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/14/us-crash-ups-urgent-idUSBRE97D0JW20130814

[Yosemitest]

Most crashes are "catastrophic", but it's quite normal for an aircraft on a visual approach with an experienced pilot, to turn a dogleg to final that tight to the runway.
A less experienced pilot might turn it further out.
But you must consider obstacles in the area, such as radio towers, mountains, and other obstacles.