Accident Details
An airplane was observed flying at no more than 150 to 200 feet above ground level in the vicinity of Gregg County Airport. Witnesses reported that the aircraft entered a descending right turn as the pilot radioed a distress call, then it subsequently crashed into trees and terrain. No reduction of engine power was noted before impact, and investigators found no preimpact part failure.
Pilot Background
Records indicated that the pilot was enrolled in a substance abuse and alcohol program. He had been diagnosed as suicidal after use of alcohol and had a history of depression. His life had become strained after facing a number of personal problems.
Toxicology Results
Toxicology tests of the pilot for ethanol showed 209 mg/dL in blood, 65 mg/dL in vitreous fluid, and 69 mg/dL in urine. Drug tests revealed acetaldehyde levels of 13 mg/dL in blood and 14 mg/dL in urine. Additionally, 0.008 μg/mL of tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid, a metabolite of marijuana, was detected in the pilot's urine, but none was found in his blood.