What happened
The aircraft impacted the terrain while the pilot was attempting an aerobatic maneuver. Witnesses at the scene provided accounts of the flight path prior to impact; one witness observed the airplane performing spins and barrel rolls. Another witness reported seeing the aircraft perform three or four descending turns following a stall, eventually descending below the tree line and striking the ground.
The investigation
Investigators found no mechanical anomalies in the aircraft that could be linked to conditions prior to the impact. However, local law enforcement noted the presence of several beer cans both near the wreckage and inside the airplane.
Toxicology results from the pilot's blood, liver, and urine revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.055% (55 mg/dL of ethanol). Additionally, testing identified the presence of sertraline—a prescription antidepressant used for panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder—and its metabolite, desmethylsertraline. The pilot's blood contained 1.672 ug/mL of sertraline and 2.983 ug/mL of desmethylsertraline. Records indicate the pilot did not disclose the use of any medication during his most recent FAA medical examination, which was conducted on June 13, 2000.