What happened
During a non-scheduled VFR cross-country flight operating under 14 CFR Part 135 regulations, an aircraft struck mountainous terrain. Prior to the collision, the pilot had communicated with air traffic control, stating that the flight was proceeding under visual flight rules and maintaining an altitude of 8,500 feet MSL. The accident occurred during the return portion of the journey at an elevation of roughly 9,100 feet MSL.
The impact took place on a south-facing slope of a mountain near the final radar position recorded for the flight. The incident occurred under dark night conditions. Analysis of the wreckage and the signatures found at the site indicated a high-energy, shallow-angle impact with the ground.
Findings
An investigation into the wreckage found no indications of mechanical failure or technical issues with the aircraft prior to the crash. The primary factor identified in the sequence of events was the collision with terrain during the night flight phase.