Flight History
The flight was cleared to descend to 3,000 feet, and the pilot acknowledged the clearance. No further radio communication was received from the pilot. Radar data showed the last recorded position for the flight was approximately 20 miles northeast of the airport at 2,900 feet, after which the target disappeared from radar.
Witness Accounts
Two witnesses approximately two nautical miles east of the accident site reported hearing sounds described as "back fire," "fireworks," and "crackling." One witness reported seeing the airplane flying west over the treeline, then heard the sound of an impact.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage was found in a heavily wooded area amid charred trees and burned pine straw. The engines were embedded approximately five feet in the ground, and the chordline of the wings was approximately perpendicular to the ground. Examination of the airframe and engines revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction.
Toxicology and Medical Records
The toxicology report for the pilot stated that bupropion, bupropion metabolite, sertraline, and desmethylsertraline were detected in the liver, and bupropion metabolite and sertraline were detected in the kidney. A review of medical records maintained by the pilot's physician revealed the pilot had been prescribed drugs containing bupropion (Wellbutrin) and sertraline (Zoloft) to treat symptoms of depression. A physician's note dated July 14, 2003, stated, "Doing very well on Zoloft ... and Wellbutrin ... . Depression - stable." The records also revealed the pilot had a history of atrial fibrillation and was prescribed the drug sotalol. The pilot reported none of his medical diagnoses or medications on any applications for FAA Airman Medical Certificate.