Sequence of Events
A non-instrument-rated pilot filed an IFR flight plan and proceeded on a night cross-country flight to Columbia, Tennessee. During arrival, the pilot contacted Memphis ARTCC and requested the VOR/DME approach to Maury County Airport, which was a straight-in approach from the northwest. The initial approach fix (IAF) and the final approach fix (FAF) were located 11.4 and 5.4 miles northwest of the airport, respectively.
At about 2136 CST, ARTCC cleared the pilot to descend and maintain 3,000 feet until past the IAF. At 2141, ARTCC informed the pilot that the airplane was 500 feet low; the pilot responded that he was climbing back to 3,000 feet. At 2142, ARTCC cleared the pilot for the approach. The last communication with the pilot occurred at 2147, when radar service was terminated.
At about 2155, the airplane collided with trees and crashed approximately 10 miles southeast of the airport. The wreckage was found distributed over an area of about 600 feet.
Weather Conditions
The weather at 2200, near the time of the accident, included 400-foot overcast ceiling, visibility 1-3/4 miles with fog and drizzle, and wind from 030 degrees at 4 knots.
Witness Reports
Witnesses reported hearing the airplane circling before it crashed.
Toxicology Results
Toxicology tests of the pilot's blood and liver fluid showed 11 mcg/ml and 8 mcg/ml, respectively, of Butalbital. Butalbital is a barbiturate/sedative and is not approved by the FAA for use while operating an aircraft.