What happened
A pilot, who did not hold an instrument rating, departed from the airport on a down-wind departure course. The flight path took the aircraft toward mountainous terrain situated between the departure and destination airports. At the time of the flight, cloud bases were uneven at approximately 1,400 feet. A witness reported seeing the airplane before it disappeared into the haze.
Radar data analysis showed a target matching the aircraft's departure time and initial path. This radar target was observed performing multiple climbs and descents while executing left and right turns at altitudes ranging between 2,100 and 3,000 feet. The final radar target was positioned approximately over the accident site at the time of the occurrence.
The investigation
Investigators examined the airframe and engine following the accident. The examination found no anomalies with the engine or airframe that would have prevented normal operation.