Flight Details
The pilot of the accident flight was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) with flight following. During the flight, the pilot requested to descend toward the airport. An air traffic controller instructed the pilot to maintain VFR. The last recorded radar position for the flight was approximately 9 nautical miles southeast of the airport at an altitude of 2,400 feet MSL.
Accident Sequence
The controller transmitted to the pilot, "radar contact lost squawk VFR change to advisory frequency approved," and the pilot acknowledged the transmission. No further radio or radar contact was made with the flight after that point.
Wreckage and Site Examination
The wreckage was found at the base of broken trees in a wooded area located 0.9 nautical miles south-southeast of the runway 33 threshold. The debris was approximately 1,100 feet left of a straight-in course for runway 33. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction was observed.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather observing system at the airport reported calm winds, reduced visibility with light rain and mist, and low clouds at the approximate time of the accident.