Accident Overview
The aircraft crashed in a mountainous area while operating under visual flight rules (VFR) on a personal flight destined for Long Beach, California. The accident occurred during conditions of low clouds and extensive snow showers in the area. The aircraft struck the ground in a near-vertical descent.
Pilot Information
The pilot was a non-instrument rated private pilot. According to the pilot's logbook, he had accumulated 5.0 hours of simulated instrument flight time and 0.5 hours of actual instrument flight time under dual instruction.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident examination of the flight controls revealed that the control surfaces remained attached to their respective attachment fittings. Continuity of the flight control cables to the cabin/cockpit area was established.
Occupants
The pilot and four minor children aboard the aircraft were killed.