Flight Details
The pilot departed on an instrument proficiency flight in visual meteorological conditions. The first 30 minutes of the flight, which included a practice approach, missed approach, and radio communications, were normal. During the return flight to the departure airport, the pilot was issued a descent from 4,000 to 3,000 feet. The pilot's acknowledgment of the descent instruction was slow and hesitant.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the airplane impact the ground in a descending left bank at a high rate of airspeed, accompanied by high-pitched engine sounds. The cloud layer in the area was above 3,000 feet, and visibility was 10 miles. Examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact failures of the engine or airframe.
Pilot Background
Family members and co-workers revealed that the pilot was employed as a construction supervisor and was on assignment out of state. The pilot worked 12 to 14-hour days and had been commuting home on weekends. A co-worker stated that the pilot reported having fallen asleep in traffic during the drive into work. The pilot's daughter reported that her father looked tired two days prior to the accident.