What happened
Before departing, the pilot, who was not instrument rated, contacted an Automated Flight Service Station to request an en route weather briefing. During this briefing, the specialist informed the pilot that an Airmet was currently in effect for instrument flight rule conditions along the intended route of flight, though conditions were expected to improve to marginal visual flight rule conditions later in the day.
A witness residing approximately one mile north of the accident site observed a small aircraft flying over his residence at a low altitude. The witness reported hearing changes in the sound of the engine, though he noted that the engine did not sound as if it were cutting out. As the aircraft continued, it was observed getting lower.
The aircraft subsequently collided with several trees at the accident site.
The investigation
Post-accident examinations of the aircraft were conducted. These inspections did not reveal any mechanical anomalies that would have prevented normal operations.