What happened
The aircraft experienced a catastrophic failure approximately twenty-five minutes after initiating its departure from the airport. There were no eyewitnesses to the specific moments leading up to the impact, leaving investigators to rely on physical evidence at the site.
The crash site was located within a plowed and cultivated seed alfalfa farm field. Examination of the ground scars indicated that the aircraft struck the terrain in a level flight attitude, with all wheels making contact with the ground simultaneously. Upon recovery, it was noted that the flaps were fully extended.
The investigation
Post-accident analysis focused heavily on toxicological findings to determine potential contributing factors regarding the crew's condition. Blood samples were drawn from both individuals involved in the flight.
The pilot's blood alcohol concentration was measured at 335 mg%, with evidence of putrefaction present in the sample. The passenger's blood alcohol level was recorded at 138 mg% with no such degradation evident.