Overview
A student pilot departed Dexter, Missouri, at approximately dusk on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight without a flight plan, destined for Houston, Missouri. The estimated flight time was about 30 minutes.
Witness Reports
At 1900 Central Standard Time, the city marshal of Bunker, Missouri, reported that an aircraft flew over Bunker at such a low altitude that he believed it would strike the water tower. Approximately half an hour later, another individual reported a low-flying plane over Highway 72 near Bunker. Around the same time, campers situated between Bunker and Salem, Missouri, observed a low-flying airplane circling at about treetop level before departing to the northwest. Shortly thereafter, they heard a popping sound, followed by the abrupt cessation of engine noise.
Investigation
The aircraft was located the following day at the site where it had impacted trees approximately 30 feet above ground level, then came to rest at the bases of two large trees. The investigation revealed that there were areas of instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) along the route, and the pilot had been advised that VFR flight was not recommended. The search for the aircraft was delayed due to darkness and thunderstorm activity. An examination of the wreckage found no evidence of preimpact mechanical failure.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was explicitly stated in the source.