What happened
The pilot reported experiencing moderate to severe turbulence that prevented the maintenance of altitude. During the flight, the pilot requested assistance and was directed toward the nearest airport, Apple Valley, receiving both a heading and distance for the approach.
Following a report from the pilot that the aircraft door had popped open, all radio and radar contact with the aircraft was lost. An eyewitness observed the aircraft in level flight before it underwent an abrupt roll to the right and pitched forward. The aircraft continued in a nose-down attitude until it exploded into a large fireball.
Findings
The weather conditions at the time included forecasts for moderate to severe turbulence, strong winds, rain, icing conditions, and scattered to broken clouds.
According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), if a door opens during flight, the pilot is instructed to reduce airspeed to minimize buffeting and land at the nearest available airport. Additionally, when encountering rough air, the instructions advise slowing the aircraft to maneuvering speed or slightly below, maintaining a stable flight attitude, and avoiding abrupt maneuvers.