What happened
During a night takeoff, an unspecified aircraft impacted terrain while in the initial climb phase. The flight occurred under dark night conditions characterized by fog, which resulted in a 100-foot ceiling and visibility of only 1/4 mile.
The pilot, an instrument-rated private pilot, sustained serious injuries and was unable to recall the details of the flight. Prior to departure, a weather briefing had been obtained and an IFR flight plan was filed. At the time of the accident, the pilot's flight experience included 312.8 total hours, with 61 hours of night flight time and 26.8 hours of actual instrument time.
The investigation
Investigators found no discrepancies with the aircraft's engines, flight instruments, or overall mechanical condition that would have contributed to the accident.
However, toxicological analysis of a urine sample subpoenaed from the treating hospital revealed the presence of ethanol, benzoylecgonine (a metabolite of cocaine), and cocaethylene (a substance formed by the simultaneous ingestion of cocaine and alcohol). While benzoylecgonine can remain detectable in urine for three to five days following use, the lack of available blood samples meant investigators could not determine the specific timing or amount of substance ingestion. The pilot denied being under the influence of alcohol or cocaine on the day of the crash.