Accident Narrative
The airplane descended into an area between two converging mountain ridges known locally as 'The Punchbowl' and impacted rising terrain in an almost-level attitude. Weather was clear at the time of the accident. No mechanical anomalies were noted with either the airplane or the engine.
Pilot Background
The pilot had two previous possible suicide attempts; however, the circumstances surrounding them were not present at the time of the accident. Family members stated that the pilot was not depressed and that he was actively involved in a new hobby.
Medical Conditions
The pilot had emphysema, with hypoxia at rest. The hypoxia would reasonably be expected to worsen at altitude. The pilot may have had problems with the control of impulsive behaviors, which could have been aggravated by a decreased blood-oxygen supply. The pilot had coronary artery disease; however, its extent would not necessarily have caused any symptoms. The possibility of sudden stroke, seizure, heart attack, or other incapacitating event could not be eliminated by the autopsy, and hypoxia could have increased the likelihood of their occurrence. Although undetermined what, if any, role the pilot's medical conditions played in the accident, it was possible that his psychiatric condition and/or his emphysema were factors.