Incident Overview
According to reports, the pilot and a passenger had worked a long day before returning home to attend to household chores. Later, they met and consumed food and beer. Eventually, they arrived at the location where the pilot's airplane was parked. The two individuals boarded the aircraft and flew for a period, then landed along the shore of Tazlina Lake for physiological relief. Shortly after, they took off again.
Collision and Rescue Attempt
While airborne, the pilot was explaining a maneuver described as a forward side-slip. During this explanation, the aircraft collided with the surface of Tazlina Lake. The passenger was dazed by the impact but managed to exit the airplane as it was sinking. He dove into the water in an attempt to rescue the pilot but was unsuccessful. Later, the pilot's body was recovered from the lake.
Toxicology and Weather Conditions
A blood test of the pilot revealed an alcohol level of 0.103%. Weather reports indicated areas of surface fog over the lake up to approximately 10 to 20 feet above the water. Except for the fog, described as water smoke, the ceiling and visibility were unlimited.
Conclusion
The incident resulted in the death of the pilot. The passenger survived.