Accident Sequence
A witness observed an aircraft traversing an open field at a very low altitude. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft collided with the tops of several pine trees at an estimated height of 90 to 95 feet above ground level (AGL). Following this collision, the aircraft descended and crashed into the ground.
Investigation
Examination of the aircraft wreckage revealed no evidence of any preimpact part failure or malfunction. The pilot had previously held a student pilot certificate and a medical certificate; however, both had expired prior to the accident.
Toxicology
Toxicological analyses were conducted on the pilot's blood and urine samples at two separate laboratories. One laboratory reported a butalbital concentration of 1.6 mg/L in the blood. The other laboratory reported a butalbital concentration of 3 mg/L and noted that this level would be within the therapeutic range. Additionally, salicylate was detected in the pilot's urine. Butalbital is a member of the barbiturate class of medications and is known to typically cause side effects such as drowsiness and loss of alertness.