Incident Overview
An aircraft collided with a tree and crashed during a go-around, resulting in serious injuries to the pilot and passenger.
Sequence of Events
The pilot received a weather briefing prior to the flight and was advised that VFR flight along the intended route was not recommended due to low ceilings and snow showers. The pilot, who was not instrument rated, initiated the flight regardless.
After encountering the weather in a valley near Huntsville, which is surrounded by mountains, the pilot circled the area for approximately one hour while communicating with Flight Service Station and the sheriff's department. The weather was deteriorating, and the pilot was attempting to locate car lights set up by the sheriff on the landing strip.
Landing Attempts and Go-Around
The pilot located the strip and made three attempts to land. On the third attempt, the aircraft touched down. According to the pilot, the aircraft began swerving, prompting a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft's wing struck a large tree. The aircraft crashed 99 feet beyond the tree.