Accident Overview
The pilot was providing a 15-minute free orientation ride to a Young Eagle participant when the airplane suffered a loss of engine power. Subsequently, the pilot initiated a forced landing to an open field.
Loss of Power and Forced Landing
During the forced landing approach, the airplane inadvertently stalled and impacted the terrain in a nose-low attitude. The sequence of events suggests that the loss of power prompted the forced landing, during which the stall occurred.
Postaccident Examination
After the accident, an examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of fuel or the smell of fuel. Investigators identified no preimpact anomalies with the engine or airframe that could have affected the airplane's performance.
Toxicology and Medical Findings
Toxicology tests conducted on the pilot detected multiple over-the-counter and prescribed medications. According to the National Transportation Safety Board's Medical Officer, the medications may have had adverse effects. Additionally, the condition for which the drugs were ingested could have caused distraction or sensory disturbance, potentially playing a role in the accident.