Accident Details
The aircraft collided with the ground in a vertical descent while operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) during a cross-country flight. The accident occurred approximately 4 miles east of Lexington, Tennessee. The pilot had filed an IFR flight plan but was a student with limited experience and was not instrument rated. A passenger was also on board.
Flight and Pilot Information
The pilot, a student, filed an IFR flight plan but lacked an instrument rating. The controller who had been working the flight noted a lack of professionalism in the pilot's holding of headings and reporting procedures. The pilot's limited experience was also noted.
Communications
Radio contact was lost when the flight encountered thunderstorms and turbulence. The last radio contact was at approximately 1346. At 1346:07, the Memphis Center received a report from a Kansas City FSS specialist stating that the pilot had reported being in severe turbulence and did not know his location.
Crash Location
The aircraft crashed about 4 miles east of Lexington, Tennessee. No further details about the aircraft or injuries were provided in the source.