What happened
The aircraft struck trees and mountainous terrain at an elevation of roughly 9,500 feet MSL. The debris field was located on the lee side of a mountain within a grassy meadow, surrounded by high peaks. A rocky embankment with a 30-degree upward slope was situated approximately 100 feet ahead of the impact site, while a steep 65-degree cliff dropped away about 100 feet from the aircraft's tail. The wreckage was positioned above a valley that measures approximately one-quarter mile in width.
Evidence at the scene included debris found up to 410 feet from the primary wreckage in a grove of trees. Investigators identified fifteen distinct tree disturbances within this grove, noting a descending path of impact from the treetops downward. The airframe showed semicircular impressions matching the diameters of the surrounding tree trunks, with visible organic material transfer.
Findings
Meteorological analysis indicated that while visibility was likely unrestricted and cloud cover was scattered or clear, a significant cloud band was positioned over the Sierra Nevada Mountains roughly 9 to 10 miles southwest of the site. At altitudes between 10,000 and 12,000 feet MSL, winds were estimated at 270 degrees with speeds of 40 to 45 knots. Reports from the flight path indicated the presence of strong updrafts, downdrafts, and moderate or greater turbulence. Post-accident inspections of the airframe and both engines revealed no mechanical discrepancies. The accident occurred when the aircraft encountered a downdraft while approaching high terrain at an altitude that did not provide sufficient clearance from obstacles.