Accident Sequence
Witnesses reported observing the helicopter in flight. Subsequently, a loud bang was heard, after which the engine was no longer audible. The helicopter immediately initiated a left turn and began to descend. As it approached the ground, the engine noise increased. The helicopter then impacted hard on top of a hill.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the engine and transmission oil tank, as well as the engine oil system, contained 2 quarts of oil. The turn-to-lock type oil dipstick was found not locked. Oil residue was visible exiting the filler neck and flowing out of the engine compartment and down the tail boom. No oil leakage was found on the ground at the crash site.
The day before the accident, an FAA inspector had noted oil leakage in and around the helicopter's engine compartment.
Toxicology Results
Toxicology tests on the pilot were positive for 0.010 ug/mL (blood) tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid (marijuana). One passenger tested positive for 0.038 ug/mL (blood) marijuana, and another passenger tested positive for 2.4 mcg/mL (urine) diphenhydramine (Benadryl).