Introduction
A mechanic, who was not rated as a pilot, took an aircraft without permission and elected to take off at night. A witness observed the aircraft departing at approximately 0250 Pacific Daylight Time. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed about 3 miles east-northeast of the airport in an open, undeveloped area.
Accident Details
The exact time of the accident could not be determined, but a clock recovered from the wreckage had stopped at 0355. Evidence indicated that the aircraft impacted the ground in a nose-down, inverted attitude while on a north-northeast heading. The aircraft moved only 28 feet after impact and came to rest inverted, with the landing gear extended and the flaps retracted. No preimpact mechanical problems were found.
Toxicological Findings
Toxicology tests conducted on the pilot showed a blood alcohol level of 3.7‰ and a vitreous alcohol level of 3.3‰. No record was found to indicate that the pilot had engaged in any previous formal flight training.
Personal Background
There was evidence that the pilot had been under recent stress. A friend reported that the pilot and his wife were 'breaking up.' The pilot's wife stated that he had a drinking problem, which was the reason for their separation.