Flight History
The airplane departed on a cross-country flight. Shortly after departure, it collided with trees on the peak of a mountain and was destroyed during an uncontrolled descent into a ravine. The commercial and instrument rated pilot and his two passengers were fatally injured.
Weather Briefing
Prior to departure, the pilot contacted the Denver Automated Flight Service Station (AFSS) in Englewood, Colorado, to request an en route weather briefing, stating VFR if possible. The air traffic control specialist who took the call provided weather information concerning local conditions and forecasts for the intended route. She advised that along the entire route there were Airmets for turbulence and IFR conditions, along with a cold front that included thunderstorm activity. She provided a VNR statement indicating that VFR flight was not recommended.
Witness Observations at Departure Airport
Witnesses at the departure airport reported cool and humid weather with light winds. Visibility was 3 to 4 miles and the ceiling was 300 to 700 feet. They observed the aircraft make a "very flat, but fast" departure from runway 29. At about 500 feet above ground level, the airplane entered the clouds. Shortly thereafter, it descended and re-emerged from the cloud base, proceeding out of visual range to the northwest.
Accident Site Witnesses
At the accident site, witnesses stated that visibility was approximately 100 feet and the ceiling was approximately 100 feet at the time of the accident. One witness who observed the impact reported hearing the airplane's engine "rev up to full throttle" while it was still in the clouds. The airplane emerged from the clouds in a very steep descent. It hit the ground first with its left wing, then bounced and rolled into the gulch.
Aircraft Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies.