Witness Account
A witness reported that the airplane lifted off from runway 13, which was 4,500 feet long and 75 feet wide, with a dry asphalt surface. The airplane became airborne approximately 600 feet from the end of the runway. The witness stated that the airplane climbed to an altitude of 150 to 200 feet above ground level before it began an increasing left banking turn. The airplane was in a nose-high pitch attitude during the climb, and its bank angle reached approximately 50 to 60 degrees. Subsequently, the airplane's nose began to pitch down, reaching a maximum nose-down pitch angle of 70 to 80 degrees at the time of impact with terrain.
Aircraft Examination
Following the accident, a detailed examination of the airframe structure and its systems revealed no anomalies that could be associated with a preexisting condition. Similarly, the aircraft engine and its systems were examined, and no anomalies were found that could be associated with a preexisting condition.
Toxicology Findings
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) toxicology examination detected the active ingredient of marijuana, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and its metabolite substance, Tetrahydrocannabinol Carboxylic Acid, in the pilot's tissues and fluids. The levels of these substances were consistent with the direct inhalation of marijuana less than one hour before the accident.
According to the book 'Fit To Fly: A Pilot's Guide to Health & Safety' by Richard O. Reingart, MD, the active ingredient in marijuana, THC, causes temporary euphoria and relaxation. The book further states that THC distorts perception, weakens critical judgment, interferes with the ability to concentrate, increases heart rate and the incidence of cardiac arrhythmias, impairs short-term memory, diminishes IQ, and decreases reaction time and tracking—effects similar to alcohol.