Incident Overview
Witnesses observed an aircraft flying westbound toward a pass at a low altitude above the ground, near the base of low stratus clouds. The aircraft subsequently struck a tree at the top of a ridgeline in mountainous or hilly terrain while on a northeasterly heading. After the initial impact, the aircraft traveled approximately half a mile and crashed into a heavily wooded hillside.
Witness Accounts
A witness located on the ridgeline reported hearing the initial impact of the aircraft with the tree and seeing falling debris. However, due to fog, the witness was unable to see the aircraft itself. No other witness statements were recorded.
Terrain and Conditions
The accident site is characterized by mountainous or hilly terrain with a ridgeline. Low stratus clouds were present near the base of which the aircraft was flying at low altitude. Fog further reduced visibility near the ridgeline.