Accident Sequence
The airplane approached an open field at tree-top level and struck a 34-foot utility pole about 6 feet from its top. The aircraft then burst into flames and crashed in the field.
Witness Observations
A friend of the pilot, who was operating a tractor in the field, observed the airplane at low altitude. The friend stated that the pilot had buzzed him in the past and that he thought the pilot intended to buzz him again. Ground witnesses additionally noted that the tractor was generating dust near the pole at the time of the accident.
Manufacturer Representative Flight
A representative from the aircraft manufacturer flew over the same route, under similar weather conditions, and at about the same altitude and time of day. He reported to the investigator that he had difficulty seeing the lines and poles due to sun glare and similar color terrain, although he knew their location.
Toxicology Results
Toxicology tests of the pilot's blood showed 0.027 mcg/ml Temazepam, a short-term sleep aid, and a low level of Temazepam was detected in his urine. Additionally, a low level of Oxazepam, a metabolite of Temazepam, was detected in the pilot's blood and urine. Previous studies of Temazepam blood levels suggest that at least 24 hours had elapsed since the pilot had last utilized the drug; thus, the drug was unlikely to have affected the pilot's performance.