Flight Sequence
The flight departed with full fuel tanks. It initially proceeded eastbound, then turned northwest. While east-northeast of the departure airport, the pilot performed approximately four 360-degree turns to the left. During each orbit, the airplane moved closer to the departure airport. The last recorded radar target was at an altitude of 600 feet, at coordinates 28 degrees 49.1 minutes North latitude and 081 degrees 01.73 minutes West longitude.
Accident and Wreckage
The airplane crashed in a wooded area during daylight hours. The crash site was located approximately 061 degrees and 0.66 nautical mile from the last radar target. The ELT activated, prompting a search by the Civil Air Patrol and local law enforcement. The wreckage was spotted 10 hours and 44 minutes after the time of the accident. The fuselage and wings were fragmented. All components necessary to sustain flight were either attached or located in close proximity to the accident site. The flaps were retracted.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the flight controls revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. Following recovery, the engine was placed on a test stand. With a replacement propeller installed, the engine was started and operated to 2,300 rpm. The rpm drop during each magneto check was between 100 and 150 rpm.
Autopsy Findings
The autopsy report indicates the manner of death as "suicide."