Flight History
The aircraft departed on a night cross-country flight on December 1, 1989, but failed to arrive at its destination.
Communications
At 2312, the pilot contacted a flight service station to obtain forecast weather along the route. At 2342, the pilot contacted Minneapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center (ZMP) and stated he was "a little disoriented and would like a [transponder] code and a heading toward Sault Ste Marie (ANJ), Michigan." Two transponder codes were assigned to N2440P, but attempts to establish radar contact were unsuccessful. The last communication with N2440P occurred at 2345 when the pilot informed ZMP that their transmissions were "pretty weak."
Witness Report
A witness who reported seeing an airplane flying at tree-top level stated that there was heavy snow in the area at the time.
Wreckage Discovery
The wreckage was located by hunters on October 12, 2002, in a heavily wooded swamp. The airplane had descended through the trees for approximately 150 feet on a northeasterly heading before coming to rest in a nearly inverted attitude.
Wreckage Condition
Flight control continuity was established. The engine had separated from the airframe at the engine mounts and was buried in the swamp, with approximately 1½ inches of one propeller blade visible. There were no immediate plans to remove the wreckage from the swamp.