Accident Overview
The aircraft struck trees during flight in fog and rain on a dark night, shortly after the non-instrument rated pilot canceled his Visual Flight Rules (VFR) flight plan. Neither the pilot nor the passenger could recall the details of the crash. The pilot stated that the weather conditions were VFR at the time.
Weather Conditions
The passenger reported that the aircraft was clear of clouds until north of Melbourne, Florida. At approximately 0200 Eastern Daylight Time, they flew into heavy clouds with light rain. After that point, the passenger could not recall what happened.
Post-Accident Investigation
The pilot suggested that carbon monoxide poisoning might have been a factor. However, an inspection of the heater muff and exhaust system revealed only one small crack, located in the exhaust tailpipe outboard of the heater muff shroud.