Flight and Warnings
The pilot, who was not certified for instrument flight, continued a visual flight rules (VFR) flight during nighttime hours. Prior to and during the flight, weather briefers and air traffic controllers had provided warnings of thunderstorms, heavy precipitation, and the possibility of tornado activity in the area.
Final Moments
As the flight progressed, the pilot contacted air traffic control and requested "a little guidance." He further reported difficulty "holding a position" and stated that he was navigating "running on a . . . magnetic compass." Subsequently, the aircraft entered a steep descent. Following this descent, radio and radar contact with the aircraft were lost.
Wreckage Examination
The aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup at an unknown altitude. Debris was scattered over an area spanning three miles. A detailed examination of the wreckage found that the right wing had failed under positive loads, meaning an upward force. The left horizontal stabilizer exhibited a bent-downward spar. The right horizontal stabilizer had completely separated from the airframe and was not located.