Incident Overview
The pilot of the aircraft reported that after climbing to an altitude of 3,200 feet, he reduced the throttle to idle by pulling it fully back to initiate a descent. At that moment, the engine ceased operation. The pilot stated that he attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, he performed a forced landing straight ahead, which resulted in the aircraft colliding with trees. The aircraft sustained major damage and was destroyed during the impact.
Witness Information
Multiple witnesses provided accounts of the events preceding the flight. They reported that both occupants of the aircraft appeared to be intoxicated. According to these witnesses, the occupants were consuming alcoholic beverages while the aircraft was being refueled. Additionally, the witnesses stated that the occupants had made a monetary wager of $100, betting that the pilot could glide the aircraft from Pioneer Peak to Finger Lake without the engine running. One witness utilized binoculars to observe the aircraft in flight and noted that the engine was stopped. This witness further stated that the engine had not been restarted by the time the aircraft disappeared from view behind a line of trees.
Medical Observations
Medical personnel who responded to the crash site reported that the pilot exhibited signs of intoxication, including hostile and uncooperative behavior. A blood sample was collected from the pilot approximately two and a half hours after the accident. Laboratory analysis of this sample revealed an alcohol concentration of 0.204, which is above the legal limit for operating a motor vehicle in most jurisdictions.
Damage Assessment
The aircraft was destroyed as a result of its impact with trees.