Mech problems is a genuine reason, though that chute pull where the aileron came off would not be a good reason to pull the chute if the aircraft was controllable (as it should be, one would hope).
Should be, eh? Got any facts?
Actually, in that CAPS pull, the aileron unhinged and didn't come off completely. So, the intrepid pilot is flying along with a new source of drag that requires almost full deflection to keep wings level. Cause: mechanic had removed the aileron for other work and forgot during reinstallation to safety wire the nuts on the aileron hinges, then one nut worked loose leaving the aileron flapping from the other hinge.
The pilot determined that he could not assure control during maneuvers to land, so he gained some altitude and activated CAPS over a golf course and landed in shrubs. Recently, I met one of the golfers who rushed up, inquired if the pilot was okay, and assured things were under control -- played on! That golfer is now a Cirrus owner!
Cheers
Rick