What happened
The pilot departed using a Special VFR clearance, electing not to use a stored instrument flight plan. The flight was monitored by radar as the aircraft proceeded toward its destination. After reaching visual flight conditions, the pilot climbed the aircraft to 8,500 feet MSL.
Radar data analysis shows that the aircraft maintained a relatively constant track of 300 degrees with a ground speed of 160 knots. The final radar contact occurred approximately 0.3 miles from the location where the aircraft impacted terrain at an altitude of 8,500 feet MSL. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was still tracking on a northwesterly course. The accident took place during dark, nighttime conditions.
While Minimum Safe Altitude Warning (MSAW) service was available for the area, the pilot did not request this service during the flight.