Incident Overview
A pilot cancelled flight following after advising an air traffic controller that the airplane was descending from 2,500 to 1,500 feet. The controller then terminated radar service, and the crew acknowledged the termination.
Witness Account
A witness near an antenna reported low clouds and fog in the area. The witness observed the airplane emerge from clouds on a northwesterly heading. According to the witness, the airplane banked to the right, and the left wing struck a guy wire supporting the antenna. The wing separated from the aircraft, and the airplane subsequently descended and impacted the ground.
Antenna and Wreckage Details
The top beacon strobe light of the antenna was operating prior to the accident. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. A current sectional chart found in the wreckage depicted the tower.
Radar and Weather Briefing
Review of recorded radar data showed that the reported altitude of the airplane corresponded with the encoded altitude. No record was found indicating that the pilot(s) had obtained a current weather briefing before departure.