Incident Overview
According to witness reports, the airplane was seen descending out of the clouds, then climbing back into them. A second time, it emerged from the clouds on its side before disappearing from sight, followed by a loud crash sound.
Examination Findings
A thorough inspection of the airframe, flight controls, and engine revealed no mechanical anomalies that could have contributed to the accident.
Pilot Information
The pilot had accumulated fewer than 200 total flight hours and did not hold an instrument rating. He chose to continue flying into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), which led to a loss of control.