Accident Overview
On approach to Saint Augustine Airport, the passenger reported to air traffic control that the pilot had no control over the aircraft after the controls became frozen. The airplane subsequently went out of control and crashed in flames, resulting in the deaths of both occupants. The aircraft was totally destroyed by a post-crash fire, which precluded determination of the cause of the loss of control.
Passenger Report
According to the official investigation, the passenger's report indicated that the pilot had no control over the aircraft and that the controls were frozen. This information was conveyed to ATC prior to the crash.
Investigation Findings
The investigation noted the presence of fog at the time of the accident. However, the extensive fire damage to the aircraft hindered a thorough examination of the wreckage. As a result, investigators were unable to determine the specific reason for the loss of control.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident is a loss of control on approach for an undetermined reason. Contributing factors include the presence of fog, the passenger's report that the pilot had no control, frozen controls, and extensive fire damage that precluded determination of the cause.