Flight History
The pilot, who did not hold an instrument rating, initiated a downwind departure from the airport. The route of flight was directed toward mountainous terrain situated between the departure and destination airports. At the time, cloud bases were uneven at approximately 1,400 feet, and a witness observed the airplane as it disappeared into the haze. Recorded radar data indicated a target that matched the airplane's departure time and initial track. This target performed multiple climbs and descents, accompanied by left and right turns, at altitudes ranging from 2,100 to 3,000 feet. The final radar target was positioned approximately over the accident site at the time of the occurrence.
Investigation Findings
Investigators examined the airframe and engine and found no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The circumstances surrounding the flight suggest the pilot operated in conditions that may have been challenging given the lack of an instrument rating, but no specific causal factors were identified in the source material.