Flight Details
The pilot was accompanied by an instrument-rated pilot for the flight to Myrtle Beach in case weather required instrument flight rules for the return flight. When they arrived at Myrtle Beach, the pilot decided that they would remain overnight. After visiting some nightspots and drinking, the two became separated and went their own way. The pilot decided to return to Chapel Hill. He flew the route at 8,500 feet.
Approach and Collision
Arriving near his destination, he contacted Raleigh/Durham Approach Control and was cleared to descend at the pilot's discretion, but was told to maintain visual flight rules. Subsequently, the airplane collided with trees in instrument meteorological conditions in a high speed descent.
Toxicology and Background
Independently conducted toxicology tests indicated blood alcohol levels of 0.10% and 0.071%. On the pilot's application for a medical certificate he had denied any record of traffic convictions or excessive drinking habits. During the investigation it was learned that the pilot had been convicted for driving while intoxicated in June 1987 and had his driver license suspended for one year in January 1988.