Accident Overview
The aircraft was observed taking off on a foggy night with a low overcast sky. Shortly after departure, the plane made a turn at low altitude and then entered a nose-down attitude, subsequently crashing. Witnesses reported that the engine was operating until impact. The pilot, who was not instrument rated, and a passenger sustained fatal injuries.
Witness Accounts
A person who saw the occupants at approximately 2100 EDT reported that the pilot appeared incoherent. A taxi driver who transported the individuals to the airport stated that the pilot was asleep in the cab during the ride. The passenger told the driver that they planned to sleep in the aircraft for a few hours before departing. However, the aircraft took off and crashed at about 2250 EDT.
Weather Conditions
Approximately 11 miles west of the accident site, at Brunswick Naval Air Station, the weather recorded at 1055 EDT indicated obscured sky at 100 feet, visibility 1/8 mile in fog, temperature and dew point 69 degrees Fahrenheit, and calm wind.
Toxicology Results
A toxicological examination of the pilot revealed a urine alcohol level of 0.238%. No other causative factors were identified in the source material.