What happened
Upon arrival, the flight was provided with the current Paducah altimeter setting. The pilot requested vectors for an approach to Runway 18, but the ARTCC controller was unable to accommodate the request. Consequently, the pilot was cleared for a VOR/DME-A approach with a minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 1080' MSL (600' AGL).
At 2108 CDT, the flight switched to the FBO frequency. Personnel at the FBO observed the aircraft flying over the airport and advised the crew that the aircraft was too low. In response, one of the pilots stated they would be "staying under the clouds."
The crew had originally planned to land on Runway 36, but reported that they had lost sight of that runway and intended to change to Runway 18. While flying on a westerly heading, approximately at the position of the base leg for a VFR pattern, the aircraft collided with a tree about 1 mile northeast of the airport. The impact and subsequent fire destroyed the aircraft. The wreckage came to rest approximately 700' west of the tree.
At Paducah, located approximately 30 miles west, the weather included a 200' scattered ceiling and a 900' overcast ceiling, with visibility of 3 miles in rain and fog. Winds were from 360 degrees at 7 knots. The airport manager estimated a 200' ceiling at the airport.
The investigation
The investigation found no preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft.