Overview
A private pilot who was not instrument rated lost clearance with terrain while flying at night in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The accident occurred during a dark night with low clouds and light drizzle. Witnesses near the site observed the airplane flying at an extremely low altitude from the northwest toward the southeast.
Witness Accounts
According to witnesses, the airplane turned toward the south and then disappeared behind a hill. All but one witness reported hearing a constant engine noise, which became muffled when the airplane went behind the hill. They then heard the sound of the airplane impacting the ground and subsequently saw the first signs of a fire. Witnesses noted that the airplane remained below the low clouds and that light drizzle was falling at the time.
Weather Conditions
Area weather observations indicated that the cloud bases near the accident site were approximately 800 feet above the ground. The combination of darkness, low clouds, and precipitation contributed to the instrument meteorological conditions present at the time.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had accumulated 9.2 hours of simulated instrument flight experience and 55.4 hours of night flying experience. However, the pilot did not hold an instrument rating.
Aircraft Examination
An examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have prevented normal operation. The aircraft appeared to be functioning properly prior to impact.
Conclusion
Based on the investigation, the accident occurred when the pilot failed to maintain clearance with terrain while operating in dark night, instrument meteorological conditions.