Accident Details
According to the pilot's report, the flight departed in dark night conditions with flight following. Upon arrival at the destination airport, the pilot activated the runway lights while entering the downwind leg. During the final approach, the runway lights suddenly turned off, prompting the pilot to abort the landing.
On a subsequent approach, the pilot again activated the runway lights on the downwind leg but opted for a shorter base leg to final. The aircraft was at a lower altitude and suddenly entered a heavy band of fog. The left wing then struck soft dirt, causing the aircraft to cartwheel and come to rest inverted approximately one-quarter mile short of runway 26.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot did not submit the National Transportation Safety Board Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident/Incident Report Form 6120.1.
Weather Conditions
The reported weather at the airport near the time of the accident included calm winds, visibility of 4 statute miles, moderate mist, scattered clouds at 100 feet, temperature 15°C, dew point 15°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.24 inches of mercury.