Flight Planning and Departure
Two pilots planned a formation flight to take the wingman's agricultural aircraft for service. During a weather briefing, VFR flight was not recommended, and the pilots were advised of moderate rime and mixed icing conditions in clouds below 7,000 feet. Despite this, the wingman expressed a sense of urgency to deliver his aircraft, and the formation departed without a flight plan.
Weather and Diverting
En route, the flight leader, flying a Piper PA-32 (registration N3212W), obtained weather information and elected to divert to Mattoon Airport. He reported that he decided to descend through a 'scattered' cloud layer and applied carburetor heat.
Descent and Accident
During the descent, the engine lost power. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with trees and crashed. The wingman reported that he was about 2,000 feet to the right as they penetrated the cloud layer and lost sight of the lead aircraft.
Wingman's Experience
The wingman encountered severe icing conditions and was 'very close to the ground' when he descended below the clouds. His aircraft had no radio; after descending below the clouds, he could not locate the lead aircraft. Unsure of his location, he flew by a water tower at Marshall and landed safely. About 15 miles east at Terra Haute, Indiana, the weather was reported as 1,100 feet overcast, 5 miles visibility with haze and fog.