Flight Details
The pilot departed Julesburg, Colorado, between 1830 and 1900 Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). His original destination was Casper, Wyoming, but due to weather he flew to Billings, Montana, landing at about 2200 MDT. At approximately 2347, he took off with one passenger on a flight to Broomfield, Colorado.
Before takeoff, he was advised that cloud bases were at 9000 feet MSL; he replied they would not be flying that high.
In-Flight Observations
While en route, the passenger noted they were at 7300 feet; the pilot explained that would be about 2800 to 3000 feet above ground level (AGL). Later, the passenger noted they were at 7500 feet; the pilot said that would be about 2400 feet AGL in that area.
At about 0200 MDT, the passenger became sleepy and dozed off. When she awoke, she believed the pilot had dozed as well. She nudged him, and he straightened up, slapped his face, and said he was fine. Later, the passenger dozed again and awoke when the aircraft impacted the top of rising terrain (elevation approximately 7000 feet).
Aftermath
Some 4 to 5 hours later, when both regained consciousness, the passenger asked the pilot if he fell asleep. His response indicated to her that he had. The pilot died at about 0900 MDT.
Weather delayed a search. The aircraft was found in late afternoon after the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) signal was received by satellites and an overflying aircraft.