Incident
A pilot and passenger departed Newport, Rhode Island, at approximately 2100 EST on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight to Southbridge, Massachusetts. About 33 minutes later, the pilot contacted Bradley Approach Control and requested assistance navigating to Southbridge Municipal Airport. The controller was unable to establish radar contact with the aircraft and advised the pilot that visibility was 3/4 mile in snow showers, but airports to the south were reporting VFR conditions. The pilot elected to continue toward Southbridge.
At approximately 2145 EST, radio contact was lost. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with trees in Southbridge and crashed. Witnesses reported that the aircraft circled the area three times before the crash. They also stated that the engine was operating and that snow was falling.
Investigation
Examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact part failure or malfunction. The investigation focused on pilot performance and environmental conditions.
Toxicological Findings
Toxicology tests on the pilot showed a blood alcohol level of 0.190% and a urine alcohol level of 0.234%. Additionally, pseudoephedrine, a non-prescription decongestant, was detected in the pilot's blood at a level of 2.4 mg/L.