Accident Overview
The aircraft collided with the ground in a wing-down, nose-low attitude. The pilot was not instrument rated and had been advised that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended for the intended route. Despite the advisory, the pilot proceeded and encountered adverse weather conditions.
Pilot Background
The pilot held no instrument rating. Prior to departure, the pilot received an advisory that VFR flight was not recommended for the route of flight. The pilot chose to proceed regardless.
Accident Narrative
After departure, the pilot flew into weather conditions. While maneuvering to get below or out of the weather, the pilot lost control or failed to maintain adequate terrain clearance, resulting in a collision with the ground. The aircraft struck the ground in a wing-down, nose-low attitude.
Weather Conditions
A weather observation taken approximately 45 miles from the accident site about one hour prior to the accident reported broken clouds at 1,200 feet and an overcast ceiling at 2,000 feet. Mesas and mountains in the area were obscured by clouds, indicating low ceilings and reduced visibility in the vicinity.