Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting an approach when they were unable to see the runway and executed a missed approach. While on a downwind leg and preparing for another approach, the airplane crashed into trees. A witness reported hearing the engine 'sputter' just before impact.
Examination Findings
An examination of the airplane and a teardown of the engine revealed no discrepancies. No mechanical issues were identified that could explain the loss of power or the subsequent crash.
Weather Conditions
The reported weather at the time of the accident included a ceiling of 400 feet broken, visibility 3/4 of a mile, temperature 43°F, and dewpoint 42°F. According to the FAA carburetor ice chart, this temperature and dewpoint combination favors the formation of carburetor icing.