Flight Details
A non-instrument rated pilot departed Gallipolis, Ohio, on the second leg of a trip that had originated in Thasting, Michigan, following an overnight stop. There was no record of the pilot receiving a weather briefing before departing under visual flight rules (VFR) at an undetermined time.
The aircraft traveled approximately 130 miles when witnesses observed it flying south at low altitude over a highway in mountainous terrain. Witnesses reported a low ceiling, fog, and low visibility, with one witness describing the ceiling as about 300 feet and visibility less than one mile.
Accident Sequence
Shortly after being sighted, the aircraft reversed course and collided with rising terrain at an elevation of about 3,200 feet above mean sea level.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft did not reveal evidence of mechanical malfunction. An autopsy of the pilot found no evidence of incapacitation or impairment.