What happened
In the early morning hours, the pilot departed the airport and flew into marginal VFR and/or IMC conditions. No flight plan, weather briefing, or radio communications were recorded by any FAA facility for this flight. The aircraft impacted trees located less than one mile from the airport. The wreckage was not discovered until 17 days later.
Witnesses reported that prior to 2100 the previous evening, the pilot had consumed at least one or two mixed alcoholic beverages. Additionally, witness statements indicated that the pilot had been awake for over 18 hours prior to the accident.