Accident Overview
The accident involved a private pilot departing at night under an instrument flight plan. The airplane was equipped with GPS. Weather conditions at the time included low ceilings and fog.
Flight Progress
Prior to departure, the pilot received a clearance that differed from his filed route. After becoming airborne, he received a further revision to the clearance. The airplane continued to climb, but the pilot did not follow the revised clearance. Twice, the radio was keyed without any voice transmission heard. Radar data indicated that the airplane climbed to an altitude of 4,300 feet and then entered a steep, descending right turn.
Witness Observations
Several witnesses reported hearing the airplane descending with high engine power. One witness observed the airplane's lights illuminated just before it impacted the ground.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the engine and airframe revealed no evidence of a pre-existing failure. The pilot's total flight experience was approximately 300 hours, with 50 hours logged in the accident airplane. The pilot's recency of instrument experience and night flight was not determined.