Preflight Activities
Prior to the flight, the pilot and passenger had each consumed at least 8 to 10 beers. They departed from a local bar where patrons overheard discussions about performing "crazy" aerobatics.
Flight Maneuvers
Recorded radar data from the flight was reviewed. During the last 10 minutes of the flight, the pilot performed high angle turns and pitch-up maneuvers. In the final 30 seconds, the pitch angle increased to approximately 20 degrees and the vertical speed rose to about 2,500 feet per minute. The speed profile showed the aircraft operated mostly between the structural cruise limit and never exceed speeds.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the airplane experienced an in-flight breakup. All fracture surfaces were consistent with overload separations.
Toxicological Findings
Post-accident toxicological tests on specimens from the pilot found a blood ethanol level of 222 mg/dL (0.222 percent) and hydrocodone in the blood at a level of 0.02 mg/L.