What happened
During an active flight, the twin engine aircraft encountered deteriorating meteorological conditions characterized by snowfall, thunderstorm activity, and significant turbulence. While operating in low-visibility conditions, the plane impacted a mountain slope within the Elko region.
Search and rescue efforts were significantly obstructed by the ongoing severe weather, leading to the eventual suspension of operations several days after the incident. The wreckage was not located until 13 May 1965, in a remote and isolated area. The accident resulted in one fatality, involving the pilot.
Findings
Investigations into the crash determined that the aircraft experienced a loss of control following an engine failure for reasons that remained undetermined. A primary contributing factor was the decision to continue flight under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) despite being subjected to adverse weather, including thunderstorm-related turbulence and intense updrafts and downdrafts.