THE DTSB
The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be Pilot Suicide, in that the accident pilot was having family and business problems, and flew his aircraft in day VMC conditions to the highest and most remote portion of terrain that would be most likely to not be findable or reachable. The aircraft wreckage was located 16 days later at an elevation of 11,300 feet MSL, and recovered via helicopter on January 28, 2025.
NTSB
Probable Cause issued 9/18/2026 – 21 months after the accident: Impact with mountainous terrain for reasons that could not be determined due to a lack of available evidence.
THE DTSB
The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft become more aware and looking out for unusual high stress situations and offer help where possible. There is likely not a lot that anyone can do for this unfortunate category.
NTSB
None issued. NTSB recommendations are rare and usually tied to high-profile accidents.
See the NTSB Recommendation Tracker →