Overview
An aircraft crashed into trees and then the ground, resulting in the death of the pilot. The accident was investigated by the state medical examiner and aviation safety authorities.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses near the crash area reported seeing the aircraft in a nose-down descent. The aircraft then recovered to level flight at approximately 500 feet above ground level with near full engine power before flying off to the southeast. Another witness, located about 1 mile south of the first group, heard the aircraft in what appeared to be a descent with near full engine power. This witness then heard a noise similar to a rifle being fired, followed immediately by all engine noise stopping. The witness later located the wreckage of the aircraft.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination of the aircraft structure, flight controls, and engine revealed no evidence to indicate a precrash failure or malfunction.
Toxicology
Toxicology testing indicated no evidence of alcohol or drug usage by the pilot prior to the crash.
Cause of Death
The State Medical Examiner stated that the pilot died as a result of massive blunt force injuries due to the crash.