Accident Overview
Approximately 7 minutes after takeoff, an airplane collided with terrain about 3 miles from the departure airport. The accident site elevation was 1,100 feet above mean sea level (msl), while the highest terrain in the area is 1,400 feet msl. The departure airport elevation is 643 feet msl.
Witness Accounts and Weather
Witnesses reported that the airplane disappeared into clouds at approximately 200 feet after takeoff. They also noted that the hills to the southeast were obscured by clouds at the time.
Pilot Condition
The pilot had about 4 hours of sleep the night before the accident flight. This lack of rest was identified as a factor in the event.
Occupants and Outcome
Both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be the pilot's failure to establish an adequate climb rate. Contributing factors included pilot fatigue from lack of sleep and the prevailing weather conditions.