Accident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, an airplane crashed approximately 0.8 miles east of the departed runway 21. The accident occurred in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). One minute after takeoff, the pilot reported a cloud base of 800 feet above ground level (AGL) to the FAA Flight Service Station.
Witness Accounts
According to witnesses, shortly after the pilot's report, they heard the airplane's engine producing a loud, screaming sound. The airplane then emerged from the clouds descending toward the ground. Witnesses stated that the nose of the airplane rose just before it struck trees.
Investigation Findings
An on-scene investigation did not reveal any anomalies with the airframe. A subsequent examination of the engine also found no anomalies. The instrument panel and autopilot controls were destroyed by impact forces. Three gyros were recovered from the wreckage and examined; two of the gyro casings exhibited rotational scoring.
Pilot Information
The pilot had logged approximately 354 hours of total flight time. He earned his instrument rating on May 31, 1992.