Accident Summary
During a night cross-country flight, the airplane entered a steep descent and crashed on a 5-degree down-sloping open field. Impact occurred in an estimated 45 to 60 degree right bank, descending turn. No preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure of the airplane was found. The airplane's last recorded annual inspection was in October of 1991.
Pilot and Medical Information
The student pilot's certificate had not been endorsed for solo flight. An acquaintance and a family member reported the pilot had experienced a stroke about 4 years earlier; however, the pilot did not note this during application for a third-class aviation medical/student pilot certificate. A pathologist reported the pilot had experienced 'arteriosclerotic hypertensive cardiovascular disease with left middle cerebral subarachnoid hemorrhage' and that this may have impaired his ability to operate the airplane.
Toxicology and Prescription Drugs
Three prescription drugs were found in the pilot's effects. One of these contained a caution, 'may cause drowsiness;' however, the investigation did not verify recent use of the drug(s). A toxicology test for ethanol was negative.