Sequence of Events
The pilot received an intercept vector and was cleared for an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach during night instrument meteorological conditions. During the approach, the airplane crossed through the final approach course. The air traffic controller alerted the pilot and issued a vector to rejoin the final approach course. As the airplane maneuvered, it descended below a safe altitude. The controller issued a "low altitude warning" and instructed the pilot to climb "immediately" to 3,000 feet.
Over the next 20 seconds, the airplane climbed from 1,800 feet to 3,800 feet. Its heading changed from 180 degrees to about 330 degrees, and its airspeed decreased from 183 knots to 90 knots. The airplane then entered a rapid descent. The final recorded radar target was approximately 1/4 mile from the accident site.
Witness and Physical Evidence
A witness statement and physical evidence at the scene were consistent with the airplane's engine producing power until impact. The debris path was approximately 100 feet long and contained fragmented portions of all the airplane's components.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies. The pilot's logbook was not located, and his total or recent actual instrument experience could not be determined.