Flight and Weather Conditions
The private pilot, who was not instrument rated, reported that the flight departed with weather conditions described as light to moderate snow and visibility of 5 to 7 miles.
Initial Icing Encounter and Unscheduled Landing
En route, ice accumulated over the entire airframe. The pilot performed an unscheduled landing to remove the ice. After partially clearing the ice and checking weather on a computer, he departed the airport to continue toward the planned destination.
Second Icing Event and Airspeed Decay
In cruise flight, the pilot noted an indicated airspeed of 115 mph. The aircraft then encountered freezing rain and structural icing, and the indicated airspeed decreased to 80 mph. He reduced the pitch of the airplane in an attempt to maintain 80 mph and diverted to the nearest airport. However, the airplane could not sustain 80 mph, and the pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing to an open field short of the airport.
Precautionary Landing and Nose Gear Collapse
During the landing roll on rough and uneven terrain, the nose gear collapsed. The airplane then nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.
Weather Conditions at Nearest Reporting Station
The nearest weather reporting station, located 30.4 nautical miles east-southeast (103 degrees) of the accident site, reported calm winds, visibility of 4 statute miles with freezing rain and haze, few clouds at 1,000 feet, a broken ceiling at 1,500 feet, and an overcast layer at 2,800 feet. The temperature was 28 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 27 degrees Fahrenheit.