What happened
A noninstrument-rated pilot and two passengers departed from an unlighted grass strip under night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). During the takeoff, a witness reported that ground visibility was 1,200 feet.
A resident living near the accident site reported being awakened by the sound of an approaching airplane with a constant engine noise. After the aircraft passed over the residence, the witness heard a thud. The main wreckage of the aircraft came to rest in a wooded area, approximately 4.3 miles from the departure airport. There were 3 occupants involved in the accident.
The investigation
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of any preimpact malfunction. However, toxicology testing performed on the pilot revealed a blood alcohol level of 102 mg/dl (0.102%) and a urine alcohol level of 221 mg/dl (0.221%). Additionally, the pilot had been observed consuming alcoholic beverages prior to the flight.