Flight and Weather Conditions
The pilot and two passengers were en route from Beaumont, Texas, to Covington, Louisiana. The pilot, who was not rated for instrument flight, departed Beaumont under a special VFR clearance. At the time of departure, the weather at Beaumont was reported as 300-foot overcast ceiling with visibility of 12 miles.
Pilot Communications and Thunderstorm Encounter
Approximately 10 miles northeast of Beaumont, the pilot reported being at 1,400 feet MSL. No further transmissions were received from the aircraft after that report. The pilot subsequently attempted to penetrate a line of heavy thunderstorms near Henderson, Louisiana.
Accident Sequence and Witness Observations
While in the vicinity of the thunderstorms, the aircraft collided with a line of trees at an estimated altitude of 50 feet above ground level. It then impacted the ground about 60 feet beyond the tree line. A witness reported hearing the engine operating just before the impact.
Post-Accident Examination
An inspection of the engine revealed no evidence of pre-impact malfunction. No other mechanical anomalies were noted.