Pilot Attempts to Crash Plane During Mushroom-Induced Psychotic Break

Joseph Emerson, grappling with untreated depression, believed he was in a hallucination and thought crashing the plane would wake him up. The incident raises questions about FAA's strict mental health policies for pilots.

Joseph Emerson, a 44-year-old pilot, attempted to crash a plane during a mushroom-induced psychotic break, believing he was in a hallucination and that the crash would wake him up.
Emerson's mental breakdown began two days prior when he consumed magic mushrooms with friends. He started to feel paranoid and fearful, questioning the reality of his experiences.
Emerson had been dealing with untreated depression since the death of a close friend in 2018. He avoided seeking medical treatment due to the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) strict policies against pilots taking antidepressant medication.
During the flight, Emerson became increasingly agitated and attempted to activate the plane's fire suppression handles, designed to cut the fuel supply and shut down both engines. The other pilots managed to restrain him and make an emergency landing.
Emerson was arrested upon landing and is currently being held without bail on 83 counts of attempted murder. His actions have raised questions about the FAA's mental health policies for pilots.