Background
The pilot held an instrument rating and a private pilot certificate. He conducted two IFR flight plans in instrument meteorological conditions from Miami, Florida, to Groton, Connecticut. While en route, he updated his destination and alternate weather information and remained aware of the continuing conditions.
Accident Sequence
After reporting the BABET intersection and receiving clearance for the approach to land on runway 23, the pilot descended the airplane to approximately 680 feet MSL and engaged the autopilot. The airplane then descended slowly below the minimum descent altitude of 660 feet and struck a wooded area about 1.5 miles from the airport. The pilot was visually scanning outside the window and did not notice the descent before impact.
Post-Accident Findings
The pilot reported no failures to any airplane system or radios. The FAA coordinator found nothing unusual with the airplane and noted that the pilot reported being tired at the time of the approach.