Pilot Background
The pilot was an insurance agent and minister. He had recently been arrested and indicted by the State of Colorado for felony theft with respect to his insurance practice. The pilot was released from custody after posting bail on May 3, 2002, and was scheduled to appear in court on June 26, 2002. On the day of the accident, the pilot sent several electronic mail messages to several members of his church congregation informing them that he was resigning as their minister and asking them for forgiveness for the "shame and reproach" he had brought on the church.
Flight and Wreckage
According to recorded radar data, a target was detected departing the airport area and proceeding towards a popular tourist attraction to the northeast. The target circled the area, then turned back towards the airport before disappearing. The pilot's wife reported her husband missing the next afternoon, and the wreckage was located about four hours later. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed.
Investigation Findings
On-scene investigation disclosed no evidence of preimpact airframe, engine, propeller, or flight control failure or malfunction. All aircraft maintenance was current and up to date. The pathologist said "the manner of death is suicide," and the county coroner ruled the death as a suicide.