Flight Details
A private pilot was flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at an altitude of 7,000 feet mean sea level (MSL). Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, he reported a complete electrical failure. He then initiated lost communication procedures and attempted to maintain his last assigned heading, airspeed, and altitude.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported no issues with his engines, pitot-static system, or vacuum-powered flight instruments. He recalled the airplane striking tree limbs but had no memory of events from that point until the crash. The aircraft came to rest on terrain with an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet MSL. The pilot was unable to explain why he had descended 3,900 feet before the impact. He did not report a lightning strike, and he remained in IMC until the moment of impact.
Post-Accident Information
The investigation did not determine the reason for the loss of electrical power.