Accident Location
The accident occurred at the northeast end of a large valley in the Sierra Nevada mountains, where the valley splits into two smaller valleys. The northern branch leads to a pass, while the southern branch enters a box canyon area. The impact site was on a plateau at an elevation of 7,300 feet above mean sea level (MSL).
Weather Conditions
Witnesses reported heavy snow showers with near-blizzard-like conditions at the time of the crash. A helicopter crew later observed that the bases of the overcast clouds were at 6,300 feet MSL.
Pilot and Flight Details
The pilot was not instrument rated and did not obtain a weather briefing prior to departure. The flight was a cross-country journey to attend a family event in Nevada.
Sequence of Events
Prior to the impact, witnesses heard the aircraft circling in the snow showers. The aircraft then collided with two large pine trees near the edge of the plateau.