Incident Overview
An instrument-rated private pilot experienced a loss of control while climbing in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft after impact with terrain. The pilot, who was the sole occupant according to the report, deployed the aircraft's parachute system and descended safely to the ground.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot's statement, the flight departed at approximately 1320 from runway 26, with a planned direct-to GPS route. After takeoff, a right turning climb was made to the east. Once established in the climb, the pilot engaged the autopilot. Shortly thereafter, the pilot switched the radio frequency to 128.0 and encountered a buzzing sound, with the radio stuck in receive (RX) mode, which the pilot described as a distraction.
Contacting Minneapolis Center, the pilot reported an altitude of 3,700 feet and climbing. The controller advised reporting back at either 7,000 or 9,000 feet, though the pilot could not recall the exact altitude. At that point, the pilot noticed that the autopilot had initiated a left-hand standard rate turn, despite the aircraft having been heading east when the autopilot was engaged. This further distracted the pilot.
Taking manual control to regain the desired climb profile, the pilot stated that they misread the vertical speed indicator, inadvertently causing the aircraft to stall. The stall developed into a spin from which recovery was not possible. At that critical moment, the pilot activated the parachute system, which deployed successfully and allowed the aircraft to float to the ground.
Examination Findings
An examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact anomalies, indicating that the aircraft was mechanically sound prior to the loss of control.