Accident
A private pilot with 450 hours of flight experience and no instrument rating collided with mountainous terrain during a cross-country flight in instrument meteorological conditions. The accident occurred approximately 10 miles southwest of the destination airport at an elevation of 5,273 feet.
Pre-Flight and En Route Weather Briefings
Prior to departure, the pilot received a weather briefing from a flight service station and was advised that visual flight was not recommended. The pilot elected to depart. While en route, the pilot obtained another weather briefing and was again advised that visual flight was not recommended due to mountain obscuration and icing.
Witness Accounts
Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes into the flight, several witnesses heard the airplane, with the engine running, flying low toward a mountain, followed by the sound of an explosion. One witness reported that it was snowing and visibility was approximately 150 feet. Another witness described the weather as a mixture of rain, sleet, and snow at the time of the accident.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed that the landing gear was extended and the flaps were retracted. No mechanical deficiencies were noted with the airplane or the engine.
Pilot Toxicology
The pilot, reported to be a physician, tested positive for several prescription narcotic painkillers, an over-the-counter pain reliever/fever reducer, and two over-the-counter antihistamines.