What happened
On November 23, 2024, a Cessna 182T, registration N434CP, was destroyed during a flight near Drake, Colorado. The flight was being operated by the Civil Air Patrol for the purpose of aerial photography to assist the Red Cross with emergency response planning. The flight departed from Northern Colorado Regional Airport (FNL) at approximately 0930.
After completing several orbits over the target area, the pilot turned toward the departure airport. While maneuvering over trees at approximately 1,500 feet above ground level (agl) and heading toward a ridgeline, the aircraft encountered a sudden drop. The mission observer reported that the pilot lowered the nose and attempted a turn, but the aircraft struck trees. The impact resulted in 2 fatal injuries and 1 serious injury.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage, which was located on a steep slope in rough mountainous terrain, about 75 feet downslope from a ridgeline. The fuselage was found upright, though it sustained severe impact damage to the engine and cabin compartments. Portions of the wings were found near the fuselage, and a piece of the right outboard wing was wrapped around a tree approximately 35 feet up the slope.
Examination of the propeller blades showed damage to the leading edges, and tree branches at the site showed marks consistent with propeller contact. A follow-up examination of the airframe and flight controls confirmed control continuity, and the engine showed no anomalies that would have prevented normal operation.
Meteorological data from the HRRR model indicated moderate turbulence between 12,000 and 13,000 feet MSL in the area. Additionally, seven pilot reports (PIREPs) from other aircraft in the vicinity reported moderate turbulence. An autopsy of the pilot determined the cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries.