Flight and Weather Conditions
The aircraft departed on a night cross-country flight under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). However, the weather later became instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) near the mountains. A VFR flight plan had been filed but was never opened. Mountain tops in the area were obscured.
Pilot Actions and ATC Communication
The pilot continued flight into an area of known IMC conditions. He had returned to Las Vegas once and requested additional weather briefing. After his second departure at night, he asked for air traffic control (ATC) assistance for separation through Las Vegas, California. ATC observed the aircraft climbing in heavy rain. Approximately 15 minutes later, at 1226, the pilot reported navigational problems. ATC provided a heading for a return course. ATC personnel then observed the aircraft begin a turn that progressively tightened, after which the radar target disappeared from the scope.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft impacted terrain about 65 feet below a ridge line at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet MSL. The impact occurred on rising terrain, with the right wing striking first. The aircraft traveled 58 feet upslope before coming to rest.