Accident Summary
The airplane was destroyed when it impacted trees and terrain during an approach. The pilot and one passenger sustained fatal injuries.
Flight History
The flight originated on an IFR clearance to VFR conditions on top. The flight acknowledged radar termination but continued to squawk 0106. A clearance was not issued to the flight to perform an approach. The flight was from GRB to D25.
Witness Accounts
A witness heard a crash around 2210 and reported that the ceiling was low and overcast. A front passenger stated that she thought the pilot was performing an IFR approach and described it as a normal approach. She said she saw the runway lights and remembered hitting something, and that the pilot said "OH NO, OH NO." She stated that the pilot was using the emap GPS. A rear seat passenger stated that during the flight, the airplane was flying above clouds. He said he saw runway lights and heard a rumbling or growling sound like "RRRRRahRRRRRahRRRRR." He and another rear seat passenger both stated that the pilot said "It's not working, it's not working." The sound occurred about 300 feet or about a minute prior to impact. The front passenger was not aware of the pilot's conversation that the rear seat passengers heard.
Meteorological Information
The sky condition was 400 feet overcast. The airport's NDB and GPS approach landing minima were 700 feet ceiling and 1 statute mile visibility, and 500 feet ceiling and 1 statute mile visibility, respectively.
Navigational Aids and Procedures
The ADF switch was found in the off position. The airport's NDB and GPS approach minima were available.
Wreckage and Equipment Examination
Control continuity was established to all flight surfaces and to the engine. The fuel selector's sump valve, spring, and screen were found coated with a brown colored media. A Garmin emap handheld GPS was found near the wreckage. A handheld radio marked JD-200 was also found near the wreckage. A spray can marked "HEET Starting Fluid" was found in the wreckage. The engine was test run and produced full power. A radio shop witness stated that the airplane's installed radio and GPS were inoperative.
Medical and Toxicological Findings
The FAA CAMI report detected chlorpheniramine and acetaminophen.
Additional Findings
No further details were provided.