What happened
The flight was part of a round-robin cross-country itinerary with a planned return to Burlington, Connecticut. During the approach phase, the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions, specifically snow and lowering ceiling heights. Due to these conditions, the decision was made to divert to Simsbury, Connecticut.
Upon arrival at Simsbury, the aircraft attempted to land on the available runway. Observers noted that the airplane touched down approximately two-thirds of the way down the runway length. Following touchdown, skid marks were visible on the pavement, indicating continued forward momentum. The aircraft left the paved surface and exited off the right side of the runway, coming to rest on frozen snow and uneven terrain.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the site revealed skid marks extending from the runway onto the adjacent ground. The presence of frozen snow and rough terrain outside the runway boundaries contributed to the final resting position of the aircraft.