Accident Overview
An aircraft crashed into the side of a hill at an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet mean sea level (MSL) in a 50-degree nose-down attitude. The accident occurred around midnight under rainy and foggy conditions. The collision site was located about 40 miles southeast of the departure point, even though the intended destination was approximately 60 miles north.
Flight Details
The pilot had been flying a night visual flight rules (VFR) flight when he encountered adverse weather. He was attempting to return the aircraft for a scheduled club flight the following morning. The pilot had initially planned an early morning departure but was doubtful about the morning weather. Despite VFR flight not being recommended at the time, he decided to make the night departure. The route of flight was generally northward, yet the crash site indicated a southerly heading.
Witness Reports
Witnesses in the area reported hearing an aircraft around midnight. At that time, conditions were rainy and foggy. No further details about the aircraft or pilot were provided in the investigation report.