Accident
On January 21, 1982, an aircraft was found crashed in mountainous terrain. The location was approximately 300 feet from where it had struck the tops of trees. The elevation of the trees was about 3,380 feet MSL. Radar contact with the aircraft was lost while it was descending to intercept an instrument landing system (ILS) approach.
Weather Briefing
Before takeoff, the pilot received a complete weather briefing. The briefer warned that the weather system in southern California was extremely hazardous and advised the pilot several times not to go. The briefing included numerous pilot reports that confirmed the forecast of icing and turbulence.
Investigation
An examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact malfunction or failure. The aircraft was not certificated for flight in icing conditions. The pilot had filed an IFR flight plan prior to departure. Interviews with local residents indicated that the weather was severe with wind and rain at the time of the accident.