What happened
On April 17, 2017, a Socata TB-20 Trinidad, registration N28070, crashed into remote, snow-covered mountains near Sierraville, California. The flight departed from Truckee-Tahoe Airport (TRK) at approximately 15:49 for a personal cross-country trip to Petaluma Airport (O69).
Radar data indicates that after an initial northerly climb, the aircraft turned west. While the aircraft was in transit, radar contact was lost for approximately nine minutes. When contact was regained at 16:05, the aircraft was observed performing several turns at varying groundspeeds. The final radar return at 16:08 showed the airplane on a southwesterly heading at 8,869 feet MSL, located less than half a nautical mile from the accident site. Shortly after this return, the aircraft impacted terrain at an elevation of 7,697 feet MSL. The pilot and the passenger sustained 2 fatal injuries.
Prior to the flight, the pilot had discussed the weather with a co-owner, expressing concern about the conditions. Although the co-owner advised against attempting to fly through the overcast, the pilot proceeded with the flight. At the time of the accident, instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) were present in the area, characterized by clouds, light rain, and snow.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage and found a linear debris path consistent with controlled flight into terrain. The aircraft's engine and airframe showed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunctions that would have prevented normal operation. The propeller blades were found to be impact-damaged, with one blade bent significantly.
An examination of the pilot's medical and toxicology results showed no impairment from alcohol, as the ethanol detected in the muscle was consistent with postmortem production. The presence of ibuprofen was noted but not considered an impairing factor.