What happened
A non-instrument rated private pilot was flying along a route of flight that featured a line of convective activity. Prior to departure, the pilot had received weather briefings indicating thunderstorm and rain shower activity, with a recommendation against VFR flight.
During the flight, the pilot contacted Flight Watch to report a rain squall along the route. The pilot was briefed that thunderstorms and rain showers were moving in from the coastline, with cells showing Level 3 and Level 4 intensity. The pilot later reported being in "solid rain" and noted significant activity to the south. After contacting Approach Control for VFR flight following, the pilot was briefed on thunderstorm cells in the area. Upon observing activity on the cockpit Stormscope, the pilot requested and received a deviation to the south. During the maneuver, the right wing separated.
The investigation
Search efforts resulted in portions of the wreckage being located over several miles during a period of several weeks. Investigators established continuity to all flight controls. An examination of the one recovered engine revealed no anomalies that would have contributed to the accident.