Accident Overview
The aircraft took off from an uncontrolled airport and was en route to an airport equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS). The pilot had received his instrument rating three weeks prior to the accident, and the airplane was equipped for instrument flight.
Pre-Flight Actions
According to available records, there was no documentation of a weather briefing received by the pilot, nor was a flight plan filed for the trip.
Radar Data
Radar tracking data indicated that the aircraft initially displayed an unidentified transponder code of 1200. Subsequently, the radar showed a primary target moving in an easterly direction, then maneuvering, and eventually heading back west. The last radar return was recorded approximately seven miles from the accident site, roughly three minutes before the collision.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft impacted trees on a ridgeline while heading in a westerly direction, which was toward the airport of departure.
Witness Observations
Eyewitnesses in the area reported reduced visibility due to fog on the mountain.