What happened
The flight departed under visual flight rules, despite a preflight weather briefing that included advisories for scattered showers and thunderstorms along the route. During the flight, the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions and received an in-flight advisory warning of low ceilings and reduced visibility ahead. The pilot acknowledged the forecast, stating he would keep an eye on the weather.
Approximately 50 minutes into the flight, the pilot requested radar vectors to assist in circumnavigating rain showers. Although vectors were provided, air traffic control observed that the aircraft was not following the assigned heading. The pilot subsequently requested a new heading to get out of the weather, reporting that he was in rain and having a hard time. Shortly after this communication, the aircraft target disappeared from radar.
Investigation revealed that the aircraft impacted a heavily wooded area in a near-vertical attitude at a high rate of speed. Witnesses reported hearing sounds of high engine power prior to impact. The weather conditions at the time were characterized by driving rain, gusty winds, and reduced visibility due to rain and overcast-induced darkness.
The investigation
Investigation revealed the aircraft impacted in a heavily wooded area in a near-vertical attitude at a high rate of speed. Witnesses heard sounds of high engine power prior to impact.