Flight Planning and Weather
Prior to departure, the pilot obtained a weather briefing that included information about a low-pressure area with moisture, advisories for icing, and the freezing level along the planned route.
In-Flight Icing
While en route, air traffic control advised the pilot of pilot reports of icing. Other aircraft on the same radio frequency reported ice accretion. The pilot observed ice adhering to the airframe and windshield. He requested lower altitudes and eventually decided to divert to an alternate airport.
Approach and Accident
During the instrument approach, the pilot extended the flaps. The airplane then began descending at a rate that the pilot could not arrest. The airplane impacted the ground short of the runway, in a wings-level attitude, and nosed over.
Post-Accident Observations
An airport employee arriving at the accident site estimated that the airplane's leading edges were covered with 1 to 1.5 inches of ice.
Aircraft Information
The emergency procedures section of the owner's manual noted that while flying into known icing conditions is prohibited, in an unexpected icing encounter the pilot should plan a landing at the nearest airport, be prepared for a significantly higher stall speed, and leave the wing flaps retracted.