Accident Overview
A pilot took off at 2010 CDT with an estimated 1.5 hours of fuel on board, intending to practice night landings. When the aircraft did not return, a search was initiated. The wreckage was subsequently discovered by fishermen, submerged in a lake approximately 15 miles southeast of the airport.
Aircraft Examination
After recovery from the lake, an examination of the aircraft revealed crushing damage to the nose and the leading edges of the wings. The nose gear had separated, and the main gear collapsed rearward. The aft fuselage was bent downward just aft of the wings and main gear. Investigators found no preimpact mechanical problems.
Witness Account
A witness at a boat dock reported seeing an aircraft matching the description of N25991 flying over the lake at about 2030 CDT. He stated the aircraft was flying extremely low, then climbed over trees, turned toward the northeast, and began climbing. The witness did not see the aircraft after that and assumed it was returning to the airport.
Pilot Medical Examination
A pathological examination of the pilot revealed evidence of both recent and old myocardial infarction. The coroner believed the cause of death was related to the pilot's cardiovascular condition.