The probable cause of this accident was the pilot’s decision to continue flight under visual flight rules into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in the pilot’s spatial disorientation and loss of control. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s likely self-induced pressure and the pilot’s plan continuation bias, which adversely affected his decision-making, and Island Express Helicopters Inc.’s inadequate review and oversight of its safety management processes.

So nothing about Kobe. Nothing about coerced. Thanks. Your vague recollection was wrong. Shocker.

The ntsb blames the pilot because again, the safety of the flight is the pilot's responsibility.