Accident Summary
The pilot was cleared to land. During short final approach, the aircraft was observed to roll to the right, then to the left, enter a yaw, and subsequently descend nose-down into a parking lot. Witnesses reported the airplane was very low on final approach.
Pilot Background and Recent Activity
According to the pilot's wife, his last flight was approximately 83 days prior to the accident. No current logbook or other maintenance-type records were recovered except for an invoice. The invoice was dated December 20, 1994, and documented an annual inspection and the replacement of six fuel inlet float valves in compliance with an airworthiness directive.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination of the engines, propellers, and airframe components revealed no discrepancies. Symmetrical power signatures were observed on both propellers.
Medical and Toxicological Findings
An autopsy revealed mild focal patchy inflammation and mild cardiomegaly, as well as enlargement of the heart with focal patchy replacement fibrosis. Toxicology testing detected Diphenhydramine, Naproxin, acetaminophen, and Salicylate in the blood and urine at therapeutic levels. Diphenhydramine, at therapeutic levels, causes drowsiness.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was the pilot's failure to maintain positive aircraft control, a proper airspeed, and fly a proper approach path during final approach. Contributing factors were the pilot's physiological condition, impairment as a result of using a sedating medication, and lack of recent experience.