Synopsis
A non-instrument rated private pilot was conducting a dark night cross-country flight without obtaining a weather briefing. The area was experiencing widespread low ceilings and visibilities at the time.
Flight History
Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) radar data showed the airplane climbing to 8,000 feet mean sea level (msl) toward its destination. Approximately 35 minutes after takeoff, the airplane began maneuvering and descending to 5,900 feet msl. About 60 minutes into the flight, it maneuvered to within 3-4 miles of an airport. The last two radar returns indicated a right turn to the north. The final radar hit occurred 75 minutes after takeoff at 5,700 feet msl (approximately 700 feet above ground level). The airplane impacted rolling terrain at an elevation of 5,100 feet msl, about 8.43 nautical miles east-northeast of the airport it had been maneuvering near.
Weather Information
According to the local sheriff, blizzard conditions were present in the area, making movement difficult for surface vehicles. Winds were gusting to 65 mph, visibility was reduced to about 1,000 feet, and the ceiling was described as "very low."
Aircraft Examination
No anomalies were found with the airframe or engine that would have prevented normal operation.
Pilot Information
The pilot's toxicological tests were positive for tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid, a metabolite of marijuana.