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Single-Engine Airplane Crashes Near Elwood Cabin After Low Canyon Flight (N1344S)

Antonito, CO, US

On August 5, 2003, a Cessna 182P (registration N1344S) operated by Ciaran Hanrahan was involved in an aviation accident near Antonito, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper in-flight planning/decision and his failure to maintain clearance from the trees. Factors contributing to the accident were the low altitude, the trees, and the mountainous terrain. 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

A high-wing, single-engine airplane traveling at low altitude through a canyon crashed near Elwood cabin. No anomalies were found with the aircraft, but pilot toxicology tests revealed prescription drugs.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported observing a high-wing, single-engine airplane flying at a low altitude in the vicinity of the accident site at approximately 1200 hours. The airplane was traveling north through a canyon. One witness stated that they could definitely see the airplane was flying lower than the mountains on the far side of the canyon.

Discovery of the Crash

Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes after the witness observations, a U.S. Forest Service fire team received a report of bluish-colored smoke near Elwood cabin. Upon arrival at the location, the fire team confirmed that the smoke was emanating from an airplane crash.

Aircraft Examination

An examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies that could have contributed to the accident.

Toxicology Results

FAA toxicology testing of specimens from the pilot detected the presence of Amphetamine and Citalophan in kidney and liver tissue. Citalophan is a prescription antidepressant. Amphetamine is a prescription stimulant used in the treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and has a high potential for abuse and dependence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Aug 2003 Cessna 182P accident near Antonito, CO?

A high-wing, single-engine airplane traveling at low altitude through a canyon crashed near Elwood cabin. No anomalies were found with the aircraft, but pilot toxicology tests revealed prescription drugs.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Aug 2003 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N1344S, operated by Ciaran Hanrahan, at Antonito, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper in-flight planning/decision and his failure to maintain clearance from the trees. Factors contributing to the accident were the low altitude, the trees, and the mountainous terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030811X01298. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.