Accident Summary
During a routine flight, the pilot had been cruising at 5,500 feet MSL for approximately 35 minutes before contacting air traffic control to request a lower altitude due to not feeling well. Over the subsequent 45 minutes of flight toward the destination airport, the pilot's condition reportedly deteriorated progressively. About 9 miles west of the destination, radio transmissions became increasingly labored, and the pilot stated that he was 'in bad shape' and experiencing 'blurred vision.'
Radar contact was subsequently lost. Another pilot observed the aircraft swerving back and forth very low to the ground before impacting the terrain at a speed described as 'cruise speed or faster.'
Pilot's Condition and Autopsy
An autopsy found no evidence of a cardiac event. Toxicology tests were negative for alcohol and carbon monoxide. The cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma to the head and chest.
Aircraft and Systems Inspection
Inspection of the aircraft's heater and muffler systems revealed no defects. No hazardous or toxic materials were found within the wreckage. The pilot was not wearing a shoulder harness; the harness was not installed. After impact, there was occupiable volume remaining within the forward cabin structure.