Accident Sequence
The pilot contacted Flight Service Station (FSS) on an incorrect frequency. Another pilot answered the call, and the pilot then requested the correct FSS frequency. Subsequently, the pilot called FSS and reported that the engine had quit.
A witness heard a transmission of "engine starting" momentarily before the aircraft passed overhead. The witness then observed the aircraft pitch nose-over, dive to the ground, and impact with no attempt to flare for landing.
Aircraft Condition
Post-impact examination revealed that the pitch trim was set fully nose-down. There was evidence of propeller rotation under power at the moment of impact. Investigators found no reason to prevent the engine from running.
Pilot Background
A background check on the pilot-in-command (PIC) showed a history of treatment for depression and continuous use of Valium to sleep since 1979. The pilot's father had experienced a nervous breakdown, and the pilot expressed fear of having a nervous breakdown himself. Additionally, there were severe shortages in government grain stored in the pilot's warehouse, and the warehouse was insured for one million dollars.
Circumstances of the Flight
The pilot left the warehouse when a government auditor arrived unexpectedly. He rented an aircraft, took off hurriedly, and subsequently crashed. Witnesses reported that the pilot did not perform a preflight inspection, did not accomplish an engine run-up, and taxied at high speed.