Accident Sequence
The aircraft was on an IFR flight at 8,000 feet MSL in instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot was cleared by ATC to descend and maintain 4,000 feet, which he acknowledged. Approximately two minutes later, ATC informed the pilot that radar service was terminated and instructed him to contact approach control on another frequency. The pilot's acknowledgment was unintelligible. Subsequently, contact with the aircraft was lost and it crashed in a steep descent.
Witness Observations
Before the accident, a witness heard the aircraft circling overhead. Initially, the witness was unable to see the aircraft due to clouds. The witness then saw the aircraft exit the clouds in a steep dive. The nose of the aircraft appeared to pull up just before impact.
Radar Data
Radar data indicated that the aircraft was in a spiraling descent before it crashed.
Aircraft Condition
No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft was found, although it was badly damaged by impact.
Pilot Background
The pilot had received an instrument rating on September 20, 1989. This was his first known flight in actual instrument conditions since receiving his new rating.