Witness Account
A witness reported hearing the sound of a low flying aircraft proceeding in a northwest direction. Due to low cloud cover, the witness could not see the aircraft. The engine appeared to be a little loud, and the witness did not hear the engine make a definite miss or cut out.
Descent and Impact
The witness observed the airplane descend from the overcast skies in a left turn and nose low attitude. The airplane then impacted the ground.
Weather Conditions
Ceilings in the area were estimated between 300 and 900 feet above ground level (AGL).
Pilot Background
The pilot had delayed his flight departure due to foggy weather conditions. He had not logged any instrument flight time from July 2, 1986, to the last entry in his pilot flight log, which was for October 17, 1996. Additionally, the pilot's wife reported that her husband had not flown instruments in a long time.
Examination
Flight control continuity and integrity were verified. An examination of the engine revealed no preimpact discrepancies.