Departure and Initial Climb
The pilot, who held an instrument rating, departed on an instrument flight under instrument meteorological conditions, which included low ceilings and turbulence. Radar data indicated that the airplane climbed to its assigned altitude but subsequently failed to maintain the assigned heading.
Flight Path Anomalies
According to radar returns, the airplane later flew a path that included two wide, constant-rate, 360-degree turns to the right. During this time, air traffic controllers twice issued new heading assignments, and the pilot acknowledged each instruction.
Pilot Report and Impact
Approximately eight minutes after departure, the pilot reported that the airplane was in a spin. Seconds later, the airplane impacted terrain in a steep, nose-down attitude. The accident site was located less than two miles from the departure airport.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage was scattered along a path measuring 200 feet in length and 80 feet in width in a wooded area. Investigators found fuel present at the site. A thorough examination of the engine, airframe, and recovered instruments revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction.