Pilot and Flight
The aircraft was being flown by a commercial pilot who held a CFI certificate obtained five days prior to the accident. He was seated in the right seat while conducting a VOR/DME approach to an uncontrolled airport at night. The left seat was occupied by a pilot who was not instrument rated. A passenger was also present.
Weather Conditions
Weather reports from the nearest station indicated an overcast ceiling at 200 feet. The pilot was aware of low ground fog in the vicinity.
Approach and Missed Approach
During the approach, the pilot asked the left-seat pilot to watch for the runway. Upon reaching the missed approach point, the runway was not visible, and the pilot executed a missed approach. After turning approximately 180 degrees, the left-seat pilot reported a possible sighting of the runway. The pilot then turned his head to look over his left shoulder and out the left rear window to try to see the runway.
Collision
The pilot later stated that he did not remember the events after that point. He reported no mechanical issues with the aircraft or its instruments. The aircraft struck tall trees about half a mile east of the runway. A passenger told investigators that the engine was operating until the moment of impact.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed no signs of mechanical malfunction or failure.