On August 6, 1988, a Mooney M20F (registration N6864V) operated by Edward J. Geyman was involved in an aviation accident near Burkesville, KY. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported losing control of his airplane after encountering heavy rain and extreme turbulence while flying over a black cloud. The aircraft entered a spin, descended into trees, and impacted terrain inverted. The pilot did not obtain a weather briefing.
Incident
The pilot of an airplane reported that while flying at 8,500 feet, the aircraft encountered heavy rain and extreme turbulence as it passed over a black cloud. The pilot described the event as feeling like an "invisible tornado had reached out" and grabbed the airplane. Excessive climb and descent rates were experienced, and control of the airplane was lost. The aircraft entered a spin, descending several thousand feet into trees. On impact with the trees, both wings were torn off, and the airplane subsequently struck the terrain in an inverted position.
Pilot Background
According to the pilot, he held an instrument rating. However, FAA records indicate that he was not instrument rated. When questioned about pre-flight preparation, the pilot stated that he had not obtained a weather briefing from flight service. He noted that he was aware of a cold front in the area.