What happened
On July 3, 2017, a Cessna 207, registration N9620M, was operating as the second aircraft in a two-plane formation. The pilot was flying approximately one mile behind a lead aircraft. During the flight, the pilot of the lead aircraft reported via radio that visibility was decreasing and that they were performing a 180-degree left turn to exit the area.
After losing visual contact with the lead aircraft, the pilot of N9620M executed a shallow climbing right turn. During this maneuver, the pilot observed rising terrain and entered clouds for several seconds. The pilot subsequently struck trees, which were not visible prior to impact. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot was not injured.
At the time of the accident, the pilot reported a temperature of 60°F, visibility of 8 miles, and ceilings of 1,500 feet. Nearby weather reports indicated light rain, a temperature of 54°F, and a broken ceiling at 500 feet.