Accident Overview
The aircraft, with two pilots aboard, impacted terrain on a plateau at 5,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) in a steep nose-down attitude. Post-accident examination confirmed flight control continuity was present.
Pilot Information
The pilot-in-command had recently been certificated, but his third-class medical certificate had expired at the time of the accident. The second pilot held a commercial pilot certificate and an instrument rating; however, his recent flight experience could not be determined from available records.
Environmental Conditions
The crash site was located in an area devoid of significant ground lighting, described as a "black hole" environment. A meteorological summary indicated that at the approximate time of the flight, the accident area was subject to thunderstorms with rain showers, light to moderate turbulence, and flight visibility of zero miles in clouds. No official weather briefing was obtained prior to the flight.
Aircraft Condition
The aircraft was not certified for flight into known icing conditions, nor had it been inspected for instrument flight operations. Examination of the wreckage revealed one propeller blade that was twisted and bent, with scratches on the camber side. Additionally, a filament from a navigation light was found stretched.