Casualties unknown

Pilot deceased after aircraft found with marijuana in New Mexico (N8323P)

Leyba, NM, US

On October 29, 1986, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N8323P) operated by Kenneth D. Brown was involved in an aviation accident near Leyba, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot departed Albuquerque on October 29, 1986, for an unknown destination and failed to return. His wreckage was discovered months later containing a significant quantity of illegal narcotics.

What happened

The pilot departed from Albuquerque, New Mexico, on October 29, 1986, in his aircraft for an unknown destination. He failed to return to his home base, prompting relatives to notify local authorities. A search operation was initiated, and on January 23, 1987, the wreckage of the aircraft was located. The pilot was deceased, and 250 pounds of marijuana was found in and around the aircraft.

The investigation

The investigation focused on locating the wreckage and determining the cause of the accident. The search concluded with the discovery of the debris field several months after the initial departure.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34950. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.