Incident Overview
Shortly after takeoff in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the pilot made an initial radio call to approach control. About 35 seconds later, he announced, "I've just lost my vacuum." Air traffic controllers attempted to assist but were unable to communicate with him further.
Flight Path
Radar data showed the airplane made a left turn and climbed to 1,400 ft. After approximately 270 degrees of turn, the flight path became erratic. The airplane was last depicted at 1,300 ft and 2 miles south of the airport.
Collision
About 4 minutes after takeoff, the airplane collided with wooded terrain in uncontrolled flight. During impact, extensive damage occurred.
Investigation Findings
No specific reason was found for the reported loss of vacuum. Toxicology tests of the pilot's liver fluid showed 0.345 mcg/ml codeine, 0.134 mcg/ml dextromethorphan, 0.249 mcg/ml dextrorphan, and an undetermined amount of morphine. A test of the pilot's blood indicated undetermined quantities of opiates, a class of drugs including codeine and morphine. Tests of kidney fluid showed 0.349 mcg/ml codeine, 0.027 mcg/ml dextromethorphan, and 0.191 mcg/ml dextrorphan. The finding of these substances is consistent with prior ingestion of codeine-containing cough syrup. Codeine, a narcotic pain reliever and cough suppressant, can produce impaired judgment, disorientation, and delayed reactions.