Witness Observation
A witness observed the airplane depart Runway 5 and climb at a steep angle. The aircraft then turned to the northwest, followed by a turn to the northeast, and descended steeply to the ground.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector revealed a control lock device, with a locked padlock, installed on the right hand flight control column.
Toxicological Testing
Toxicological testing detected 155 mg/dL (0.155%) ethanol in the pilot's blood, 187 mg/dL ethanol in the vitreous, and 205 mg/dL ethanol in the urine.
Regulatory Reference
A review of 14 CFR Part 91.17 stated, "(a) No Person may act or attempt to act as a crewmember of a civil aircraft...(4) While having a .04 percent by weight or more alcohol in the blood."