Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain a proper glidepath while on final approach in night conditions, due to his impairment from recent use of alcohol, cocaine, and over-the-counter and prescription medications.
NTSB analysis
The airplane contacted trees while on final approach to land at night in a residential airpark. The pilot reported that he adjusted the flaps and attempted to add power when he realized that he was too low, but it was too late. Local authorities located the pilot at his residence following the accident. Toxicology testing of blood and urine specimens obtained from the pilot after the accident was consistent with impairment due to recent use of alcohol, cocaine, an over-the-counter antihistamine (diphenhydramine), and two different prescription medications (alprazolam and hydrocodone). Testing results were also consistent with the typical regular use of a prescription antidepressant.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN09LA061 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 16, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Downers Grove, Illinois
- Nearest airport
- Brookeridge Air Park (LL22)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night, dark
Cessna 182
- N-number
- N759HF
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.