IFR Descent Accident Near Camden Airport (N38510)

Flight Progression and Communications The pilot was operating under an instrument flight plan from Mississippi to Alabama. The pilot received clearance from the Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center (AARTCC) to descend at the pilot's discretion. After acknowledging the clearance, the pilot began the descent. Shortly afterward, the pilot told the controller that he had “broke out of the clouds and was clear.” The pilot then advised AARTCC to “go ahead and cancel IFR at this time.” AARTCC responded that there was no traffic between the pilot and the destination airport, instructed the pilot to squawk 1200, acknowledged the cancellation, and approved a frequency change. No further radio communication was recorded between the pilot and AARTCC. ## Last Radar Contact and Wreckage Location The last recorded radar contact with the airplane was 15 statute miles west of Camden Airport at 3,300 feet. The wreckage was found the following day in a wooded area. ## Crash-Site and Aircraft Examination Examination of the crash site indicated that the airplane collided with trees in a manner consistent with controlled flight and the engine operating. Inspection of the airplane showed no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction of the airframe, flight controls, or engine assembly and accessories. ## Pilot Condition According to an acquaintance of the pilot, the pilot was unable to recall any details of the events leading up to the accident because of his injuries.