NTSB Identification: SEA04FA191.
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Accident occurred Sunday, September 19, 2004 in Mountain Home, ID
Probable Cause Approval Date: 06/08/2005
Aircraft: Cessna 172D, registration: N2650U
Injuries: 1 Fatal.
NTSB investigators either traveled in support of this investigation or conducted a significant amount of investigative work without any travel, and used data obtained from various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.
A witness observed the aircraft flying low to the ground, very aggressively and pulling up steeply back down into the canyon. The aircraft was found on the side of mountainous terrain. Impact signatures indicate that the aircraft collided with the rising terrain on its nose then slid uphill a short distance before coming to rest nose down up against a rock wall. The engine separated and was several hundred feet below the main wreckage in the valley. The propeller blades were severely damaged. On site inspection of the airframe and engine did not reveal evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. The owner of the aircraft reported that the pilot took the aircraft without authorization. Toxicological testing detected multiple medications, including an antipsychotic medication, two prescription "mood stabilizing" medications used in the treatment of bipolar disorder (manic depression), and a much higher than expected blood level of a prescription antidepressant.
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from high terrain while maneuvering. High terrain was a factor. Full narrative available
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