Accident Summary
The airplane was destroyed upon impact with terrain, and a post-impact fire ensued.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, night marginal visual meteorological conditions transitioning to instrument meteorological conditions prevailed in the area.
Witness Statements
A lineman at the departure airport reported that the pilot stated he was looking forward to a pheasant hunt in North Dakota. The pilot requested the airplane, registration N63439, be topped off with 100LL fuel and purchased 2 quarts of 15/50 oil and a Twin Cities sectional. While waiting, the pilot used the DTN weather computer. Upon returning to the counter, the pilot expressed concern about the weather, saying, "It's a little down between here and there."
Wreckage Description
The sheriff, a first responder, observed a small fire burning in the wreckage. The sheriff's report described twisted and broken metal pieces, a burn area approximately 60-80 feet in diameter, and 12-gauge shot shells scattered throughout the site. A small section of tail indicated the airplane appeared blue and white. The main section of wreckage was on the east edge of the debris field, and no identification or "N" number could be found due to the wreckage condition. Photographs showed the fuselage consumed by fire, both wings' leading edges crushed rearward, and the engine and propeller impacted in terrain. The airplane's data plate was recovered.
Pilot Information
The pilot was not instrument rated.