Accident Details
A pilot departed his home base for a local flight on the afternoon of the accident. A law enforcement helicopter in the area spotted the downed aircraft and landed to render assistance. The helicopter then transported the pilot to a local area hospital.
Aircraft and Terrain
The aircraft collided with terrain at an excess airspeed without flaps. The impact occurred 90 degrees from what would have been a suitable landing direction, if an emergency landing was to be considered in that area.
Investigation Findings
Subsequent examination of the aircraft and a test run of the engine did not reveal any malfunctions or anomalies that could have contributed to the accident.
Pilot Background
The accident date coincided with the pilot's 47th wedding anniversary. According to reports, the pilot was in the process of a divorce and had recently completed radiation treatments for prostate cancer.