Background
During a night flight conducted under visual flight rules, the pilot discovered that the destination airport was experiencing instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot decided to divert to Tehachapi to wait for the weather to improve.
Flight Details
Upon arrival, the pilot flew over the airport at 7,500 feet to check the wind direction. The wind indicator indicated that runway 11 was the preferred landing runway. The pilot's flight guide specified that right-hand traffic was to be used for runway 11. The pilot entered the right traffic pattern on a 45-degree entry for runway 11.
After turning onto the right downwind leg, the pilot heard the microphone keyed several times. Believing another aircraft might be in the area, the pilot extended the downwind leg to search for the other airplane. No other aircraft were seen or heard. The pilot then turned right base and subsequently right final.
Accident
On final approach, the pilot observed the runway lights and began a standard descent. While continuing the approach, the pilot noticed a red light slightly left of the airplane's windscreen. The pilot immediately maneuvered the airplane to the right, away from the light. Moments later, the airplane collided with terrain.