Accident Overview
On the evening of the accident, a pilot conducted a two-leg flight. The first leg was completed without incident. After landing, the pilot called Flight Service Station (FSS) to file a visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan for the second leg but did not obtain an updated weather briefing, contrary to school policy. The takeoff for the second leg occurred at 2158 Eastern Standard Time, approximately 5.5 hours after the initial weather briefing.
Weather Conditions
The initial weather briefing at 1624 had forecast visual meteorological conditions (VMC) along the route. However, an updated area forecast called for isolated thundershowers, and rain showers and thunderstorms were observed in the area before the second departure. During the second leg, the pilot reported difficulty maintaining VFR and decided to divert to Allendale Airport.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft enter the traffic pattern for Runway 17, then execute a go-around. The aircraft was last seen in a descending left turn toward Runway 35. Witnesses reported variable and gusty winds, moderate to heavy rain, and a ceiling greater than 2,000 feet. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees and came to rest in a pasture approximately 1 mile south-southeast of the airport.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure.
Conclusion
The accident occurred after the pilot encountered adverse weather conditions during a VFR flight, leading to a go-around and subsequent collision with terrain. The pilot's decision to not obtain an updated weather briefing before the second leg was noted as a deviation from school rules.