FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Witnesses Report Airplane Descended Straight Down Near Airport (N33774)

Jackson, MN, US

On July 21, 2003, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N33774) operated by Douglas L. Scholl was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's intentional flight into terrain as an act of suicide. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

Witnesses observed an airplane flying normally at 600-800 feet AGL before it turned left and descended vertically. The pilot had a history of depression and was recently hospitalized for a suicide attempt.

Witness Accounts

A witness reported observing the airplane flying at an altitude of 600 to 800 feet above ground level on an east-southeasterly heading. The aircraft appeared to be operating normally, according to the witness. The witness then stated that the airplane turned to the left and descended straight down to the ground.

Two additional witnesses, located approximately 1 mile from the airport, reported seeing the airplane heading straight down toward the ground.

Pilot Background

The pilot had a long history of depression. Three days prior to the accident, the pilot was hospitalized due to an attempted suicide. The pilot was released from the hospital on the day prior to the accident.

Investigation

The accident investigation is ongoing. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, engine count, date, operator, location, occupants, or injuries have been released.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Jul 2003 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Jackson, MN?

Witnesses observed an airplane flying normally at 600-800 feet AGL before it turned left and descended vertically. The pilot had a history of depression and was recently hospitalized for a suicide attempt.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Jul 2003 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N33774, operated by Douglas L. Scholl, at Jackson, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's intentional flight into terrain as an act of suicide.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030725X01194. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.