MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION
An autopsy of the pilot was conducted at the Ostego Hospital, Gaylord, Michigan, on October 28, 2009. The cause of death was attributed to blunt trauma due to the accident.
The Federal Aviation Administration Civil Aero Medical Institute toxicology report for the pilot indicated the presence of Clopidogrel, Ibuprofen, Metoprolol, and Ranitidine in urine and blood samples.
Approximately 8 months prior to the accident, the pilot had reportedly experienced some chest pain while exercising. He subsequently underwent stent placement to treat two narrowed areas in his coronary arteries. A family member stated that the pilot had returned to all normal activities, including running, and as far as he was aware the pilot had not experienced any further symptoms.
According to documentation obtained from the FAA, the accident airplane met the requirements of a light sport aircraft (LSA). Further, regulations (14 CFR 61.303) state that individuals holding at least a recreational pilot certificate with a category and class rating may operate any LSA within that category and class, provided that person holds a valid state driver’s license. However, the pilot must comply with any restrictions or limitations associated with the driver’s license, and must not have had his/her most recently issued medical certificate suspended or revoked, or the most recent application for a medical certificate denied. Based on a review of the available data, the pilot appeared to be in compliance with the regulations related to the operation of a light sport aircraft.