Accident Overview
A deer hunter observed the aircraft on a final approach to an open field at dusk, with its landing gear and flaps extended. According to the witness, when the aircraft reached about 100 feet above ground level, the nose pitched down and the plane struck the ground, bursting into flames.
Aircraft and Cargo
The aircraft was loaded with an estimated 600 pounds of marijuana, most of which was consumed by the fire. A high-altitude navigational chart was found near the wreckage, featuring a line drawn between two navigational points—one in Mexico and one in the United States. The aircraft had been stolen.
Occupants and Injuries
Both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the crash.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined as a loss of control during the approach phase of flight, specifically during a VFR pattern final approach. The following findings were identified:
- The pilot performed an unauthorized use of a stolen aircraft.
- The light condition at dusk was a factor.
- The pilot did not maintain adequate airspeed.
- An inadvertent stall occurred.
Subsequently, the aircraft experienced an uncontrolled descent and collided with terrain.