Incident Summary
A pilot reported being between cloud layers at an altitude of 7,000 feet MSL while flying in light rain. Shortly after this report, the aircraft entered a steep descent. Air traffic control lost both radar and radio contact with the aircraft.
Witness Accounts
One witness on the ground heard the sound of engines at high RPM growing louder as the aircraft approached. The sound ceased upon impact. Another witness observed the aircraft descending out of clouds and subsequently breaking apart.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the horizontal stabilizers and outboard wing sections had separated downward due to overload failure. No preexisting mechanical malfunction or failure was identified during the investigation.
Medical Information
A medical examiner from the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology reviewed autopsy and toxicology information and reported that the pilot had coronary artery disease and was at risk of sudden incapacitation.