On September 14, 1982, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration N5157G) operated by James F. Searles was involved in an aviation accident near Mahoney Creek, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control in flight during approach - VFR pattern - base turn due to uncontrolled aircraft handling and incapacitation (other cardiovascular) of the pilot, resulting in in-flight collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft crashed about 300 ft below a ridge after losing control during a base turn. Autopsy revealed the pilot had a healed myocardial infarct and coronary arteriosclerosis.
Accident Overview
The aircraft was observed flying over the strip in what appeared to be a normal downwind pattern. It subsequently crashed about 300 ft below windy ridge on the northwest face of the terrain.
Investigation Findings
Autopsy examination of the pilot revealed a "patchy healed myocardial infarct" that had occurred prior to the accident. Microscopic analysis indicated occlusive coronary arteriosclerosis of the left coronary artery. The pilot had been participating in a stress management program and was taking medication for high blood pressure.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined as follows: Occurrence #1: loss of control in flight during the approach - VFR pattern - base turn, due to uncontrolled aircraft handling by the pilot and incapacitation (other cardiovascular) of the pilot. Occurrence #2: in-flight collision with terrain/water during the approach - VFR pattern - base turn.
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