Accident Details
The aircraft was descending to enter the traffic pattern at Rancho Murieta Airport when it crashed into hilly terrain. The pilot had previously contacted Sacramento Flight Service Station (FSS) to request assistance in locating the airport, which is approximately 11 nautical miles from the Sacramento VOR on a bearing of about 65 degrees magnetic.
Witness Observations
Multiple witnesses reported seeing the aircraft at an altitude below 1,000 feet above ground level (AGL) as it descended in the direction of Fiddletown shortly before the accident. The weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC) with good visibility, but the accident occurred after dark.
One witness near the accident site heard the aircraft pass overhead at low altitude and saw its lights as it descended into the hills. Flames became visible almost immediately after impact. The witness stated that the engine sounds were normal and seemed to be at a high RPM setting. He estimated that the aircraft descended approximately 200 feet over half a mile during the final portion of the flight.
Investigation
No probable cause has been stated in the available information.