Accident Overview
During a night cross-country flight in darkness, a non-instrument rated private pilot experienced a loss of aircraft control, leading to the airplane striking trees and impacting terrain. The accident occurred under overcast sky conditions with broken ceilings at 2,700 feet varying to overcast at 3,100 feet. The last observed aircraft transponder code indicated an altitude of 2,100 feet mean sea level.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate without an instrument rating and had a total flight time of 132.0 hours, of which 7.7 hours were accumulated at night. The pilot had received 3.5 hours of dual flight instruction and had obtained a complex aircraft endorsement in the accident airplane.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident examination confirmed flight control continuity; no anomalies that would preclude engine operation were noted.
Conclusion
The accident sequence involved a loss of aircraft control by the non-instrument rated private pilot while conducting a night cross-country flight.