What happened
Prior to takeoff, the pilot, who was not instrument rated, was advised that VFR flight was not recommended. While en route at 9,500 feet, the pilot reported encountering heavy rain and requested vectors to avoid a storm. The air traffic control controller informed the pilot that weather information could not be provided due to the limitations of the ATC radar.
Following this exchange, the pilot reported being in trouble while passing through very heavy thunder. The controller suggested a right turn to 180 degrees to reverse course, which the pilot acknowledged. After this communication, there was no further radio contact with the aircraft. An in-flight breakup occurred, resulting in wreckage being scattered over an area of approximately one mile.
Witnesses near the accident site reported hearing an aircraft flying in weather characterized by heavy rain, strong winds, and low clouds. Additionally, witnesses noted that the sound of the engine was oscillating prior to the crash. At a location approximately 11 miles west, the Salisbury weather included broken clouds at 500 feet, an overcast ceiling at 1,000 feet, and visibility of 1/2 mile with rain and fog.