Accident Sequence
The pilot received radar vectors toward the airport but could not see the runway lights, despite attempting to activate them with the microphone switch. He made several orbiting turns approximately 3 to 8 miles south of the airport. The last radar return showed the airplane at about 1,600 feet MSL, flying in an easterly direction about 4 miles south of the airport. On June 24, 1990, the wreckage was found about 7 miles south-southeast of the airport. It had collided with a 1,600-foot mountain at an elevation of about 1,460 feet.
Environmental Conditions
A witness stated that the airport was shrouded in heavy ground fog and that visibility was poor approximately two hours prior to the accident. The pilot was not instrument qualified but had about 66 hours of night flying experience.
Investigation Findings
The investigation did not determine a specific probable cause for the accident.