Overview
A pilot flying in mountainous terrain obtained a weather briefing before departure but subsequently flew into known adverse weather conditions. The aircraft struck a mountainside at an elevation of 9,600 feet.
Weather Conditions
The weather briefing included advisories forecasting mountain obscuration, moderate to severe turbulence, low-level wind shear, precipitation, icing, low freezing levels, and instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Witnesses on the ground reported snow showers, mountain obscuration, high winds, turbulence, and IMC at the accident site.
Accident Sequence
The pilot continued flight into the forecast adverse weather and the aircraft collided with the mountain slope. No further details about the flight path or pilot actions are provided in the source.
Toxicology
Post-accident toxicological tests on the pilot's liver were positive for meperidine (Demerol) at a concentration of 0.3 micrograms per gram. According to the FAA's Civil Aeromedical Institute, meperidine is a narcotic analgesic and its use is prohibited while operating an aircraft.