On November 8, 2005, a Beech A36 (registration N1548Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Datil, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The autopsy report indicated that the probable cause was an incapacitating event due to a cardiac dysrhythmia resulting from significant atherosclerotic narrowing of the left anterior descending artery. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane collided with hilly terrain 45 minutes into a cross-country flight during daytime VMC. Investigation found no mechanical issues. Autopsy revealed pilot had severe cardiovascular disease; report suggests cardiac event as cause.
Incident Overview
Approximately 45 minutes into a cross-country flight, the airplane collided with hilly terrain. The accident took place during daytime hours under visual meteorological conditions.
Investigation
Investigators examined the airframe, engine, and propeller for any anomalies. No issues were found that could have prevented normal operation prior to impact.
Autopsy and Medical Findings
A postmortem examination of the pilot revealed atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, including severe blockage of the coronary arteries and a clot in the left anterior descending artery. The autopsy report concluded that "the presence of significant atherosclerotic narrowing of the left anterior descending artery may have precipitated an abnormal heart rhythm (dysrhythmia) producing an incapacitating event during flight that resulted in the crash."
Probable cause
The autopsy report indicated that the probable cause was an incapacitating event due to a cardiac dysrhythmia resulting from significant atherosclerotic narrowing of the left anterior descending artery.