What happened
An aircraft was observed flying at an altitude of no more than 150 to 200 feet AGL in the vicinity of the Gregg County Airport. During the flight, witnesses heard the pilot issue a distress call via radio. Following this communication, the aircraft entered a descending right turn and subsequently crashed into trees and terrain.
The investigation
The investigation found no evidence of any preimpact part failure or any reduction in engine power prior to the impact.
Toxicology analysis of the pilot revealed significant findings. Tests for ethanol showed levels of 209 mg/dL in the blood, 65 mg/dL in the vitreous fluid, and 69 mg/dL in the urine. Additionally, acetaldehyde levels were measured at 13 mg/dL in the blood and 14 mg/dL in the urine. Testing for drugs detected 0.008 ug/ml of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, a metabolite of marijuana, in the pilot's urine, though no such substance was found in the blood.
Records indicated that the pilot was enrolled in an alcohol and substance abuse program. The investigation also noted the pilot had a history of depression and had been diagnosed as suicidal following alcohol use, alongside various personal problems.