Flight Details
The pilot contacted the Flight Service Station (FSS) earlier in the day at 0640 and requested only the current weather at Eureka for a round-trip flight from Lakeport to Eureka and return. The flight departed Eureka at approximately 1415 for the return leg.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the airplane flying very low in mountainous terrain. One witness reported that "He came up out of the fog at close to treetop level."
Weather Conditions
The weather at the time was described as low clouds, fog, and light rain.
Wreckage Location
The wreckage was located in rising mountainous terrain at an elevation of 4,900 feet.
Pilot's Typical Routing
The pilot typically flew near Highway 101, except during inclement weather when he would divert to the east and fly via Highway 36. He had a motor vehicle parked at Ruth Airport for use in instances of very poor weather.
Scheduled Commitments
The pilot had another flight scheduled for 1500 at Lakeport and was also scheduled to teach school at 1800.