On September 16, 2003, a Beechcraft A36 (registration N1980K) was involved in an aviation accident near Stone Mountain, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's intentional flight into the ground for the purpose of suicide while impaired by alcohol. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses and radar data show an airplane circling a mountain five times before a sixth wider circuit turned toward the mountain, followed by a rapid descent with ground speed of 179 knots. No mechanical or weather issues were found; pilot had consumed alcohol and had a history of suicide threats.
Witness and Radar Observations
Witnesses reported seeing an airplane circling a mountain prior to the accident. Radar data confirmed the airplane made five complete counterclockwise circuits around the mountain. On a sixth circuit, which was farther out than the previous ones, the airplane turned inward and headed straight toward the mountain. Radar contact was lost at 1958 while the airplane was in a rapid descent at a ground speed of 179 knots.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no evidence of mechanical malfunction with the airplane. Weather-related factors were also ruled out. The flight profile—a sudden rapid descent followed by a pitch-up—could not have occurred without pilot input according to the report.
Pilot Factors
According to a witness, the pilot had consumed alcohol in the hours before the accident. Several witnesses stated that it was unusual for the pilot to fly so soon after drinking, as he was typically careful to avoid flying within at least 12 hours of alcohol consumption. Additionally, the pilot had threatened suicide on more than one occasion in the past under similar circumstances.