Accident Overview
The aircraft, after landing and being refueled, was identified as stolen. The pilot then hurriedly returned to the aircraft, started the engine, taxied to the runway, and performed an intersection takeoff. Following departure, the aircraft was observed climbing north toward mountainous terrain and subsequently collided with a steep, wooded slope in the mountains.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft found no preimpact part failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the accident. Local pilots reported that the mountain tops were obscured by weather at the time of the accident. Toxicology tests of the pilot showed alcohol levels of 68 mg/dL (0.068%) in his blood, 89 mg/dL (0.089%) in vitreous fluid, and 115 mg/dL (0.115%) in his urine, along with 0.147 μg/mL of alprazolam in his blood. There was evidence that the pilot's seat belt was not used; his body was ejected from the airplane during impact.