Background
The pilot obtained a weather briefing by phone from Hibbing Flight Service Station at 1731 hours central daylight time. During the briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended. No other weather briefings for the flight were recorded.
Flight and Weather
Witnesses at the departure airport reported that the weather was deteriorating as the pilot prepared to leave. The pilot stated that he could "pop through the low scud with no problem." The airport manager called the pilot on UNICOM after hearing the engine start and asked if he was leaving. The pilot responded that he was, because the weather was forecast to worsen by morning. The pilot departed at approximately 2145 hours eastern daylight time from runway 16. The pilot was not instrument rated.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was observed by witnesses for 20 to 30 seconds after takeoff, during which time it made a slight turn to the southwest. This was the last time the aircraft was seen in flight. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees and ground during instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at night.
Aftermath
The wreckage was not located for 30 days. The airport manager later stated that the visibility at the airport that night was limited to 1500 feet due to ground fog. Another pilot terminated his flight due to the fog and reported that the area had been about 50 percent covered by fog.