Flight Plan Deviation
Before departing from Redlands, California, the pilot informed the fixed-base operator (FBO) that he intended to remain in the local Redlands/Riverside area. However, after takeoff, he flew to Las Vegas, Nevada, instead.
Departure and Search
He departed Las Vegas at 1636 Pacific Daylight Time. When he failed to return to Redlands, a search was initiated. The wreckage of the aircraft was found approximately 8 miles north of Redlands in mountainous terrain, at an elevation of about 5,300 feet. Impact occurred at the base of a cliff in a canyon area.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact part failure or malfunction. Radar information indicated that the aircraft was flying at a slow speed just prior to the accident. The impact site was located about 2 miles north of the last recorded radar position.
Weather Conditions
A weather study showed that the bases of the clouds in that area were about 4,000 feet above mean sea level (MSL), and the cloud tops were near 5,000 feet MSL. Flight visibility in clouds was zero miles, and moderate turbulence was probable below 10,000 feet MSL.