Incident Overview
A flight intended to distribute the cremation ashes of the pilot's mother ended when the airplane was observed to spin to the ground after circling a high-altitude valley once. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft fly around the valley, which had an elevation of 10,400 feet and a density altitude of 11,864 feet, before it entered a spin and descended to the ground. One witness noted a 'cloud of something' passing behind the airplane moments before the spin.
Pilot Experience and Toxicology
According to records, the pilot had accumulated a total of 441 hours of flight experience, with approximately 30 hours in the preceding 12 months. Toxicology tests performed on the pilot detected the presence of sertraline, marketed as Zoloft, in the brain at levels several times higher than the maximum recommended dosage. Sertraline is not an approved drug for flight status.
Cabin Findings
Inside the cabin, investigators found a light tan, gritty powder throughout the area, consistent with the appearance and texture of cremation ashes. The powder was similar to the cremation ashes that were to be distributed during the flight.
Investigation Notes
The investigation did not determine a probable cause for the accident. No information was provided regarding the specific aircraft type, registration, operator, date, or other details typically noted in aviation accident reports.