Accident Details
While approaching a destination airport at night in marginal visual meteorological conditions, the pilot activated the pilot-controlled runway lights. He began a descent to the runway without observing the runway lights or the airport. Approximately 200 to 300 feet above ground level, he encountered "ground fog." He continued the descent while referencing the navigational moving map and GPS altitude on his electronic flight bag (EFB) application ForeFlight. Subsequently, while in a left turn, the airplane impacted terrain about one nautical mile south of the runway.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He added that while en route, he reset his airplane-installed barometric pressure altimeter to the GPS altitude indicated on his EFB, which resulted in a "300 ft. error."
Weather Conditions
An automated weather observing station located about 14 nautical miles west of the accident airport recorded visibility at 2½ statute miles, light rain, mist, and an overcast cloud ceiling at 300 feet above ground.
Damage
The left wing, firewall, and fuselage sustained substantial damage.