What happened
During a preflight weather briefing, the pilot was advised multiple times regarding adverse weather conditions along the intended route of travel. The briefing included notice that visual flight rules could not be maintained between Jacksboro, TN, and Rome, GA, and that active tornado watches were in effect. Despite these warnings, the pilot stated he would depart shortly after a telephone call with the Anniston Flight Service Station.
The aircraft was scheduled to return to Geneva, AL, on May 5, 2003, at approximately 1500 central daylight time, but it never arrived. No reports of mechanical or flight control anomalies were made during the flight. On May 5, 2003, the Civil Air Patrol initiated an air search, though activities were postponed due to inclement weather.
On May 8, 2003, the air search resumed. At 1945 eastern daylight time, air spotters located the wreckage site of the downed airplane. Spotters circled the area until ground crews arrived, and by 2330, ground crews made a positive identification of the aircraft.
The investigation
An examination of the airframe and engine was conducted following the discovery of the wreckage. No evidence of flight control or mechanical malfunction was identified during the inspection.