Incident Overview
A pilot without an instrument rating departed on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight plan, intending to fly directly to the destination at an altitude of 6,500 feet mean sea level (MSL). Approximately 25 minutes after departure, the pilot altered course, diverting south and then west.
Weather and Communication
About 90 minutes after takeoff, the pilot contacted Flight Watch to request a weather update, remarking that 'it was getting a little soupy out here.' Sunset occurred at 1847. At 1836, en route weather conditions were deteriorating, with cloud ceilings lowered to 1,500 feet above ground level (AGL) and scattered clouds at 800 feet AGL. The VOR navigational aid near the accident site was inoperable due to an electrical power failure.
Final Moments
At 1845, the pilot again radioed Flight Watch, requesting assistance in identifying his location. At approximately 1850, the airplane impacted a mountain at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet MSL. The accident site was located approximately 100 nautical miles south of the intended flight plan route.