Accident Summary
A Piper PA-38-112 collided with terrain during a night visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight. The accident occurred when the aircraft entered clouds and lost altitude. Night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) were present at the time. No flight plan was filed for the flight.
Flight Briefing and Planning
The pilot obtained a weather briefing before departing. The weather at the destination was reported as marginal. However, the pilot did not obtain any updated weather briefings while en route.
Flight Details
During the flight, the aircraft was being flown down a valley at an altitude of 6,500 feet MSL, following an interstate highway. An overcast ceiling was reported at 7,500 feet MSL. The pilot reported encountering strong winds and turbulence.
Collision with Terrain
While flying under the overcast ceiling, the aircraft entered clouds. After entering the clouds, the pilot lost altitude, and the aircraft collided with trees.