Accident Sequence
At approximately 0545 hours, the airplane departed from Runway 36. Shortly after takeoff, about 3/4 mile north and slightly east of the extended runway centerline, the aircraft impacted the ground while heading east. The impact caused the right wing to separate from the fuselage, and a ground fire ensued. The airplane continued through trees and across a set of railroad tracks before coming to rest in an open field, now pointing in a westerly direction.
Weather Conditions
State police described the weather at the time of the accident as "foggy, hazy...with no ceiling. Visibility in immediate area was given as 1/8 to 1/4 mile." Additionally, ice and frost were readily forming on patrol car antennas. The police report noted that the airplane surface was covered with frost, which was primarily gone before photography of the scene occurred. Temperature and dew point were both reported as 26 degrees.
Pilot and Mechanical Aspects
The pilot had no recollection of the accident. There was no evidence of pre-impact mechanical anomaly.