Accident Details
On an unspecified date, an aircraft departing from Scottsdale Municipal Airport at approximately 0045 hours struck a utility pole about 36 feet above ground level. The collision occurred less than a mile north of a private dirt airstrip, around 0200 hours, approximately 4 miles west of Buckeye, Arizona. After the impact, the wreckage was strewn along a path 152 feet long on a heading of 024 degrees. Both occupants were found with their seatbelts unfastened.
Witness Accounts
A witness stated that he had been with the two occupants of the aircraft when they were drinking with him in a local bar. The pilot invited him and a 21-year-old female to fly; the witness declined, but the female accepted. Another witness observed the departure from the airport, describing it as abnormal. The aircraft nearly collided with parked aircraft and taxied about 1,500 feet on the runway before applying full power for takeoff.
Toxicological Findings
Blood samples from the pilot and passenger were submitted for toxicological examination. The pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.15 percent, and the passenger's was 0.07 percent. A six-pack of beer was found near the aircraft, with five of the cans opened.