Background
The pilot left his residence at 0500 and flew from San Antonio to Alamogordo. On the return flight, he diverted to New Braunfels due to weather. After landing, he indicated that he needed fuel, but fuel was not available until the next morning. Reportedly, he slept in the aircraft. Airport personnel noted that the pilot had departed without refueling and without obtaining a weather briefing. No record of en route communication or refueling was found.
Flight and Accident
About 0600, wreckage was sighted where the aircraft had impacted in a level attitude near Waco Regional Airport, approximately 0.89 miles from the VOR. The airport elevation was 516 feet, and the minimum descent altitude for the VOR approach was 880 feet. The VOR bearing selector was found at 142 degrees, while the inbound course was 141 degrees. Weather at Waco was reported as a 300-foot ceiling, variable to 100 feet, visibility 1/2 mile with fog.
Post-Accident Examination
No preimpact mechanical failure was found. Propeller damage and slash marks indicated that the engines were providing power during impact.
Toxicology
The pilot had been prescribed Wellbutrin (bupropion) for depression and anxiety. Toxicology tests of his blood showed 0.11 mcg/ml bupropion (antidepressant), 0.20 mcg/ml erythrodihydrobupropion, 0.94 mcg/ml threodihydrobupropion, and an unreported amount of tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid (a metabolite of marijuana). Tests of his urine showed 0.118 mcg/ml Phentermine (appetite suppressant/stimulant). The pilot's prescription for bupropion had been refilled on 8/28/96. His son believed he was under stress from business and finances, and probably fatigued. The pilot had an urgent need to be at a real estate license renewal class in Fort Worth at 0900.