Accident Details
At the time of the accident, the pilot was flying a drug smuggling operation and was attempting a nighttime landing in a remote area near Tamarac. The aircraft struck obstacles during the landing attempt and subsequently crashed. Upon impact, the aircraft burst into flames. The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed.
Investigation Results
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a ground loop and nose down after the pilot selected an unsuitable terrain for landing. The investigation also reported several factors that contributed to the accident:
- The person operating the aircraft was not qualified to do so.
- The landing area was characterized by high vegetation.
- The landing was attempted at night on a levee.
- No flight records existed for the occupant.
- Marijuana was discovered on board the aircraft.