Bill (Henry) Waldman was probably the pilot flying. In the words of a mutual friend, "This was not only a great loss to the Waldman family, but also to California Wing [Civil Air Patrol]. Bill was one of the best. A Chief Check Pilot, a phenomenal instructor pilot, a great sense of humor, and one who loved to fly cadets, searches, border missions, and just be a part of anything involving CAP flying. I treasure the memories of his participation at our Long Beach shindigs and am saddened beyond belief by his passing. For those who never met Bill, believe me, you missed meeting a great guy. Join Mike and the rest of the guys and gals in a silent prayer and not so silent tribute to a great guy." Vivian too was a great person, one that would give anyone the shirt off her back, time of day, or just listen to you without judging.
Six people in an A36 is just fine, one has to be mindful of fuel loads and weight and balance, a topic Bill taught to all of his students.
It is way too early to guess what happened. I'm hoping it was a mechanical problem. Having one of your flight instructors/mentors make a fatal mistake is difficult.
Fly SAFE!
Jedi Nein