Departure and Collision
The pilot departed under visual flight rules (VFR) into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) consisting of fog and low cloud ceilings. This occurred prior to receiving an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance. Approximately 6 minutes after becoming airborne, the airplane collided with trees and the ground.
Background and Toxicology
Investigation revealed that the pilot and passengers had attended a funeral the day before the accident. Toxicological testing of the pilot detected benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, at levels of 0.101 µg/mL in the blood and 0.629 µg/mL in the urine. A sample from the pilot's wife showed a benzoylecgonine level of 0.906 µg/mL in the blood.
Human Performance Analysis
A human performance study conducted by the safety board indicated that it is "possible that the cocaine usage (by the pilot) exacerbated feelings of euphoria and increased the likelihood of a prior decision to takeoff without an IFR clearance at a time when his capabilities were significantly compromised."