Background
According to a friend of the pilot, the aircraft departed without any observed issues. The friend watched the airplane fly south for about ten minutes after departure. The flight was intended to reach a destination airport but never arrived.
Search and Discovery
After the aircraft failed to arrive, the Federal Aviation Administration issued an alert notice. Local law enforcement and volunteer groups initiated a search for the missing airplane. On June 17, 1996, at 1800 hours, the wreckage was located in a wooded area two miles north of the destination airport.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the accident site revealed that the aircraft had collided with 65-foot-tall trees. Debris was scattered over an area 250 feet long and 45 feet wide. A detailed inspection of the airframe and engine assemblies found no mechanical problems.
Pilot's Medical History
A review of the pilot's medical history showed that he had coronary problems and had been granted a limited third-class medical certificate.