Departure and Impact
During a dark night departure from runway 20, the airplane executed a left turn of about 90 degrees. Approximately 0.25 mile from the runway, it impacted trees located 65 feet above the ground. The airplane then came to rest in a lake.
Environmental Conditions
The runway was situated in a depression on top of a mountain that was shrouded by fog and clouds. These conditions provided no horizon for visual reference during the departure.
Electrical System Examination
Post-impact examination of the airplane's electrical system revealed that at the time of impact, the instrument panel lights were not illuminated. The light switch was found in the ON position, but the circuit breaker for the instrument panel lights had popped.
Pilot Actions
Evidence from the accident indicates the pilot struck the left side of his head on the instrument panel. Significant injuries to the left side of his torso and extremities suggest the pilot was reaching down with his right hand while keeping his left hand on the yoke, in an effort to reset the instrument panel light circuit breaker.