Accident Summary
A pilot conducting an instrument approach to a 3,001-foot-long asphalt runway experienced a loss of visual contact with the runway during the final approach, leading to a runway excursion. The airplane touched down beyond the intended touchdown point and could not stop before leaving the runway, traveling down an embankment, and striking trees.
Approach and Landing
The pilot initially performed an instrument approach to runway 6. While about 600 feet above the approach end of runway 6, he commenced a left turn and entered the traffic pattern for runway 24. On final approach, at an altitude of approximately 300 feet, the pilot lost visual contact with the runway. According to the pilot, he was "too low and slow to do a missed approach and attempted to land." The airplane landed "too far down" the runway, and the pilot was unable to stop before the airplane departed the runway end, descended an embankment, and collided with trees.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at the airport near the time of the accident included winds from 200 degrees at 12 knots with gusts to 18 knots, visibility of 10 miles, and an overcast ceiling at 500 feet.