Accident Details
A pilot without an instrument rating informed witnesses of an intention to cross mountains north of the departure airport, expecting to find clear weather before proceeding west toward the destination. Weather at the departure airport was reported as 1,200 feet overcast with good visibility below the overcast.
Flight Progression
The aircraft traveled approximately 35 miles and was over the Blue Ridge Mountains when recorded radar data showed it began to change course about 14 times over a 15-minute period, including several course reversals. During this time, the aircraft climbed from 2,100 feet to 7,200 feet.
Witness Account and Breakup
A witness near the accident site reported that it was raining, visibility was 1,000 feet, and mountain tops were obscured by clouds. The witness heard the aircraft at full power and climbing shortly before hearing a "muffled" sound followed by silence. The aircraft experienced an inflight breakup, with separated portions of the right wing and right horizontal stabilizer found at the scene.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage did not reveal evidence of mechanical malfunction.