Accident Sequence
During a night approach to land, the aircraft crashed and burned approximately 3,000 feet from the approach end of the runway. The pilot, who was not instrument rated, had been in contact with approach control and indicated that instrument meteorological conditions (IFC) existed over the airport and that he was proceeding to land.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the crash site revealed evidence that the aircraft had impacted the ground in a left-wing-low attitude. Investigators found no preimpact part failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the accident.
A blood test conducted by the state medical examiner's office showed that the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.23%.