What happened
The pilot contacted air traffic control to report that he was "going down." While controllers attempted to inquire about the nature of the problem, the pilot provided no further details regarding any mechanical or operational issues.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying in level flight at a low altitude before it suddenly entered a 30 to 40 degree descent without any reduction in airspeed. One witness noted that the aircraft maintained a steady course during the dive with the engine set at a high power setting, appearing as though the descent was deliberate. The aircraft struck the ground at a high rate of speed, and the airplane was destroyed.
Findings
Prior to the accident, the pilot had become visibly upset following accusations that he had buzzed a college campus two days earlier. Two friends who were passengers during the alleged campus incident reported that the pilot had made statements regarding his estate or parents covering any resulting legal fees. These passengers further stated that the pilot suggested the only way they would not be bothered by the situation was if he did not land the airplane. A sheriff's report concluded that the occurrence was probably suicidal in nature.