Casualties unknown

Aircraft Found on Canyon Wall After Low Passes; Pilot's Blood Alcohol Level Elevated (N19659)

Meiners Oaks, CA, US

On June 5, 1982, a Cessna 172L (registration N19659) operated by James Russell was involved in an aviation accident near Meiners Oaks, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Witnesses reported an aircraft making low passes in a remote canyon. The plane was later located on the canyon wall. Post-mortem blood tests showed a high alcohol level, partially attributed to bacterial action. No mechanical issues were found.

Incident Overview

Witnesses in a remote canyon observed an aircraft performing low passes in the area. The last sighting was of the plane ascending the canyon. Subsequently, the aircraft was discovered situated on a wall of the same canyon.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the pilot's blood revealed an alcohol concentration of 0.279 percent. The coroner estimated that approximately 0.150 percent of this level resulted from the action of bacteria, a phenomenon known as postmortem ethanol production. No evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions was identified.

Additional Details

No further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or circumstances of the flight is available from the investigation source. The report does not specify injuries or fatalities.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Jun 1982 Cessna 172L accident near Meiners Oaks, CA?

Witnesses reported an aircraft making low passes in a remote canyon. The plane was later located on the canyon wall. Post-mortem blood tests showed a high alcohol level, partially attributed to bacterial action. No mechanical issues were found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Jun 1982 involved a Cessna 172L, registration N19659, operated by James Russell, at Meiners Oaks, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X03658. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.