Accident Location and Aircraft Condition
The wreckage of the airplane was discovered in mountainous terrain. Investigators examined the airframe and engine and found no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Pilot Background and Recent Training
The owner of the airplane had recently received a checkout in the aircraft. However, he was instructed not to take passengers or operate the aircraft in mountainous areas until he had completed training in mountain flying techniques.
Toxicology Results
The toxicology report for the pilot indicated the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary active substance in marijuana, and tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid (THC-COOH), an inactive metabolite. The levels suggested very recent use, certainly within three hours prior to the crash, and possibly much more recently. The report concluded that the pilot's judgment and/or abilities were likely impaired.