Preflight and Departure
During the preflight planning, the pilot obtained a weather briefing that included an advisory for scattered showers and thunderstorms along the intended route. The flight departed under visual flight rules (VFR), but weather conditions began to deteriorate as the flight progressed. An in-flight weather advisory was received, warning of low ceilings and reduced visibility ahead. The pilot acknowledged the advisory and stated that he "would keep an eye on the weather."
In-Flight Weather Encounter and Communications
Approximately 50 minutes after departure, the pilot contacted air traffic control and requested radar vectors to help circumnavigate rain showers. A vector was issued, but radar observations indicated that the aircraft did not follow the assigned heading. Shortly thereafter, the pilot made another request, asking for a heading that would "get him out of the weather," and reported that he was in rain and "having a hard time." The aircraft's radar target disappeared shortly after this transmission.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the aircraft impacted in a heavily wooded area. The impact angle was near-vertical and the speed was high. Witnesses in the area reported hearing sounds of high engine power prior to the impact. They described the weather conditions as driving rain, gusty winds, and reduced visibility caused by rain and overcast-induced darkness.