Background
The aircraft was conducting a cross-country flight at an altitude of 4000 feet MSL when radio and radar contact were lost shortly after a turn was initiated. An Air Force pilot in the area reported an overcast sky condition at 1500 feet.
Wreckage Examination
Investigators found the wreckage scattered over a distance of 2193 feet. Examination revealed that the stabilizers/ruddervators, tail cone, right wing, and both tip tanks had separated in flight. Evidence of downward bending was noted on both ruddervators. The wings showed evidence of both upward and downward bending. The right wing had separated into inboard and outboard sections, and its aileron had also separated.
Weight and Balance
The aircraft's gross weight was estimated to be near its maximum limit. The center of gravity was approximately 5.1 inches behind its aft limit.
Cockpit and Systems
The control yoke was found positioned to the right side of the cockpit. A teardown of the attitude indicator revealed scrape marks on the gyro and inside the case next to the gyro. The autopilot switch was found in the OFF position.