On January 16, 1993, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N8004K) operated by Thurston, Curtis L. was involved in an aviation accident near Fruit Heights, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: VFR FLIGHT INTO IMC CONDITIONS WAS ATTEMPTED BY THE PILOT. FACTORS INCLUDE RAIN, SNOW, AND FOG. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying north toward Ogden, Utah encountered deteriorating weather, requested vectors to Salt Lake City and Ogden airports, declared IMC conditions, and impacted a steep mountainous slope while maneuvering.
Accident Sequence
The pilot departed and proceeded northbound toward Ogden, Utah. Meteorological conditions were deteriorating during the flight. The pilot later requested vectors to Salt Lake City Airport, then subsequently to Ogden Airport. After declaring that he was in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the pilot requested a heading that would take the aircraft away from the mountains. While maneuvering, the aircraft impacted a steep mountainous slope.
Weather Conditions
Local weather reports at the time of the accident observed rain, snow, and fog, along with reduced visibility in the area.