Background
A non-stop flight from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Ramona, California, was attempted by an instrument-rated pilot accompanied by his wife. The aircraft departed Albuquerque at 1035.
Flight Events
During the flight, the aircraft encountered clouds, strong headwinds, and icing conditions. In an effort to avoid the clouds, the pilot climbed to 14,000 feet but remained in clouds with a ground speed of 72 knots. He subsequently descended to 12,000 feet and elected to land short of the planned destination, diverting to Show Low, Arizona.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
While diverting in freezing rain and snow conditions, the fuel-injected engine began running rough and lost power at approximately 1327. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot was forced to land in a wooded area. The airplane collided with trees and came to rest inverted.
Rescue
The emergency locator transmitter (ELT) activated, and the seriously injured wife was rescued.