Incident Overview
A pilot had flown his aircraft from Springfield, Missouri, to Olathe, Kansas, to have some repair work accomplished, intending to return the same day. He did not return to Springfield. Instead, he flew to Salem, Illinois, where witnesses stated they observed that he was confused and disoriented. The pilot then attempted to return to Springfield the next day but stopped short at Rolla, Missouri. Again, witnesses at Rolla stated that the pilot was confused and disoriented.
Medication and Side Effects
The pilot was taking the prescription drugs Tenormin and Librium. Both of these drugs have warnings that include confusion and disorientation as potential side effects.
Weather Conditions
The crash occurred at night. Weather at the crash site included low ceilings and fog. The pilot was not instrument rated. However, the forecasted weather for the flight to Springfield was VFR.
Investigation
No probable cause has been stated in the source material.