Accident Overview
A pilot received a weather report indicating that instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions prevailed. After takeoff, the airplane traveled approximately half a mile before crashing. The pilot was not instrument rated and had very little total flight time. He had three hours of night flying and two hours of simulated instrument experience, but no actual instrument training.
Wreckage and Impact
Impact marks indicate that the aircraft crashed with the right wing first and the nose down approximately 45 degrees. The wreckage traveled a total of 144 feet. The front of the aircraft was demolished. The right wing separated into several pieces, and the fuselage was broken open on the right side. The engine and propeller were pushed under the instrument panel.
Witness Accounts
One witness observed the takeoff, but no one saw the descent or crash due to low visibility. Four persons reported hearing the aircraft fly overhead at low altitude with the engine revving, and three of them heard the crash.
Examination
Continuity was established between the flight controls and control surfaces, as well as through the engine. An engine teardown was not performed.