Accident Summary
A pilot initiated an instrument landing system (ILS) approach during a period of light snow with a ceiling of 400 feet. During the approach, a band of heavy snow with reduced visibility moved over the airport. The pilot reported being established on the approach and acknowledged a frequency change to the airport's common traffic advisory frequency. No further transmissions were received.
Approach and Radar Data
Radar data revealed that the airplane joined the localizer outside the initial approach fix and proceeded inbound on course. Due to limited radar coverage, the last radar contact with the airplane was about three-quarters of a mile inside the final approach fix, still on course, at approximately 1,850 feet above the airport.
Witness Account
A witness located about one-third to one-half mile east of the airport reported seeing the airplane fly overhead at a very low altitude. The witness then heard the engines rev up and observed the airplane climb. The airplane disappeared into the falling snow, and the witness subsequently heard the sound of a crash.
Wreckage Examination
Airplane wreckage was later found on rising terrain about one-half nautical mile to the left of the runway's departure end. The landing gear and flaps were retracted, and the elevator was trimmed for a climb. Trees were initially cut at an ascending angle of about 5 degrees for approximately 50 feet, then at a descending angle of about 5 degrees for another 250 feet. The wreckage elevation was approximately the same as the decision height for the ILS approach. There was no evidence of pre-accident mechanical failure.