What happened
The aircraft was engaged in flight operations when it encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Prior to takeoff, the pilot had not received a weather briefing. Upon encountering low ceilings during the flight, the pilot attempted to navigate by flying along a highway at a low altitude.
While maintaining this low-level path, the right wing of the aircraft struck a guy wire attached to a microwave tower approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL). The impact caused the aircraft to crash. Both occupants on board were fatally injured in the accident.
Findings
The investigation highlighted several critical factors contributing to the accident. The pilot's decision to continue flight into IMC without an adequate weather briefing played a significant role. Additionally, the attempt to fly at low altitude along a highway in poor visibility conditions led directly to the collision with the tower structure.