Crash Details
The aircraft crashed at night near a private strip in marginal weather conditions. Post-crash examination revealed the landing gear was in the up position, the right engine had broken off, the nose section was crushed back to the windshield, and both propellers were bent and twisted. Approximately 1,300 pounds of marijuana was found on board.
Probable Cause Findings
The official probable cause findings are as follows:
- Occurrence #1: In-flight collision with terrain/water; phase of operation: unknown.
- Findings:
1. Stolen aircraft/unauthorized use – performed by pilot in command. 2. Light condition – dark night. 3. Weather condition – low ceiling. 4. VFR flight into IMC – continued by pilot in command. 5. Altitude – misjudged by pilot in command. 6. Visual/aural perception – pilot in command.
The sequence of events indicates the pilot continued visual flight rules (VFR) flight into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and misjudged altitude, leading to collision with terrain. Factors included dark night conditions, low ceiling, and the pilot's visual/aural perception.