Accident Sequence
A private pilot and a passenger were conducting a local low-level flight. Witnesses observed the airplane flying southbound, parallel to high-tension power lines, at an estimated altitude of 200 feet above ground level. The aircraft was then seen turning eastbound toward the power lines. As it approached the wires, the nose was abruptly pulled up, the airplane rolled to the left, and the nose pitched down. The airplane subsequently impacted the ground with wings level in an almost vertical attitude.
Post-Impact Information
A post-impact fire engulfed the airplane within seconds after impact.
Toxicology
The toxicology report on the pilot revealed ethanol in the system at concentrations of 0.10% in the blood, 0.09% in the vitreous fluid, 0.14% in the urine, and 0.07% in the bile. Additionally, 0.05 mg/L of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) was detected.