Accident Sequence
As the flight approached the airport, radar data showed that it went into a shallow descending left turn away from the airport. Radar data was lost at about 650 feet above ground level with the ground speed about 100 knots. Witnesses observed the aircraft flying on a southerly heading and enter a spin or spiral from which it crashed nose first into the ground.
Investigation
Post-crash examination of the aircraft structure, flight controls, and engines showed no pre-crash failure or malfunction. Post-mortem examination of the pilot showed he had suffered a heart attack.
Pilot Information
The pilot had a history of heart disease, a previous heart attack, and heart bypass surgery. He held a special issuance FAA medical certificate, due to his history of heart disease.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident was the pilot's in-flight loss of aircraft control, due to incapacitation by a heart attack.