Accident Sequence
The pilot of an aircraft nearing its destination at night contacted TRACON and requested radar advisories and clearance into the terminal area. Radar contact was established when the aircraft was 6 nautical miles northwest of the Oceanside VOR at 1,500 feet MSL. This position placed the aircraft within restricted area R-2533. The controller asked the pilot if he could climb, but there was no reply. Shortly thereafter, radar contact was lost.
Witness Report
A witness driving on Highway 101 observed the lights of an aircraft before it descended into the ocean. The witness reported a "rain squall" in the vicinity and reduced visibility at the time.
Investigation Findings
Later, occupants and pieces of wreckage from the aircraft were washed ashore; however, the main wreckage was not recovered. The investigation revealed that the pilot's medical certificate was not valid for night flight or for color signal control.