What happened
During a VOR approach in instrument conditions, an aircraft descended into trees located approximately 2.5 miles from the airport. GPS data analysis indicates that the airplane initially traveled south of the intended approach course before turning left back toward the course. Approximately 20 seconds prior to the final recorded position, the aircraft entered a left turn at a rate of 2.6 degrees per second while accelerating from 99 mph to 119 mph. The last recorded GPS position was situated approximately 275 yards south of the accident site.
Two passengers on board reported that there were no indications of any problems during the flight. They noted that they had just descended below the clouds and believed they were landing immediately before the aircraft contacted the trees. Witnesses at the scene reported moderate to heavy rain in the area at the time of the accident.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft and engine was conducted. This examination failed to reveal any pre-existing failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the accident.