Flight Preparation
The pilot received two weather briefings before the flight and was advised that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. The aircraft's 50-gallon fuel system was serviced with 35 gallons of fuel prior to departure.
Flight and Accident
During the flight, the pilot descended the aircraft through a hole in the clouds above a highway. He then followed another highway and turned toward the destination airport. While operating under a low cloud cover, the pilot encountered hail and ground fog and became disoriented. He attempted to locate the highway again in order to land, but the aircraft crashed into a hill in an open field at night.
Witness Accounts
Two local residents reported hearing the aircraft flying in the area for approximately ten minutes before the accident. They stated that the aircraft missed their house by about four feet during its last circle. They watched it go over their house and then heard the crash.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed that the left fuel tank contained 0.25 gallons of fuel and the right tank contained 1.5 gallons after the accident.