What happened
While flying at a cruising altitude of approximately 2,500 feet mean sea level, the pilot encountered deteriorating ceiling and forward visibility. The weather conditions worsened while en route, prompting the pilot to attempt a diversion to an alternate airport.
As the pilot attempted to reach the airport, the weather continued to decline. To avoid flying into potential instrument meteorological conditions and to prevent contact with rising terrain, the pilot decided to perform an emergency landing. The pilot selected a location adjacent to a clear-cut area, attempting to land in immature trees. During the collision sequence, the wings of the aircraft were separated from the fuselage. The fuselage came to rest upright.
Findings
The occupants sustained few injuries during the initial impact; however, a post-crash fire occurred, which caused the severest injuries. There was no reported mechanical failure or malfunction of the aircraft at the time of the accident.
Prior to departure and during in-flight briefings, weather specialists had informed the pilot of adverse conditions along the route and advised that visual flight rules flight was not recommended.