Accident Overview
A witness observed the aircraft flying low to the ground in an aggressive manner, pulling up steeply before descending back into a canyon. The aircraft was subsequently located on the side of mountainous terrain. Impact signatures indicated that the aircraft collided with the rising terrain on its nose, then slid uphill a short distance before coming to rest nose down against a rock wall. The engine separated and was found several hundred feet below the main wreckage in the valley. The propeller blades sustained severe damage.
Investigation Findings
An on-site inspection of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. The owner of the aircraft reported that the pilot took the aircraft without authorization.
Toxicology Results
Toxicological testing detected multiple medications in the pilot's system, including an antipsychotic medication, two prescription "mood stabilizing" medications used in the treatment of bipolar disorder (manic depression), and a much higher than expected blood level of a prescription antidepressant.