What happened
During an approach to Greenville Airport, the crew began their descent amidst challenging weather conditions characterized by fog and restricted visibility. While on final approach, the pilot-in-command descended beneath the established minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 2,200 feet, likely in an attempt to regain visual contact with the terrain. As the twin engine airplane reached an altitude of approximately 1,400 feet, it collided with trees in a wooded area situated a few miles from the runway. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and the deaths of all six occupants.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified several contributing environmental and operational factors. The presence of high obstructions and low ceilings, combined with heavy fog, significantly hindered visibility. Specifically, the crew performed an improper IFR operation by descending below the prescribed MDA. Witnesses at the scene noted that the hillside was obscured by fog roughly halfway up the approach path, which likely contributed to the pilot's decision to descend lower than permitted in an effort to see the ground.