Accident Overview
Recorded radar data indicated that after takeoff for a cross-country flight across a coastal mountain range, the airplane climbed to an altitude of 7,500 feet mean sea level (msl) on a northeasterly course toward its intended destination, which was located in a large valley on the other side of the mountains. As the flight neared the destination airport while still over mountainous terrain, the radar target began a gradual descent while continuing on the northeasterly heading. The last radar return was recorded at an altitude of 4,100 feet msl.
Wreckage and Impact
The wreckage was located on a flat mountain plateau covered with large rocks and low vegetation. The first identified point of contact with the ground consisted of black rubber marks noted on numerous rocks approximately 180 feet from the main wreckage. The main wreckage was situated at an elevation of 4,294 feet. Ground scars and wreckage signatures were consistent with the airplane contacting the ground in a near wings-level attitude. The propeller exhibited signatures consistent with significant power production from the engine.
Environmental Conditions
Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. Moonrise occurred approximately 20 minutes after the accident. Weather reports from nearby aviation reporting stations depicted conditions of clear skies and visibilities equal to or greater than 10 miles over a wide area encompassing the accident site.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions. No other causal or contributing factors were identified in the source material.