Accident Overview
During an approach to runway 29, an aircraft struck terrain approximately one mile from the airport. A witness reported seeing the aircraft fly over the airport to the west at an altitude between 500 and 1,500 feet. Other witnesses near the accident site observed the aircraft performing abrupt maneuvers at low altitude prior to the collision. Witnesses described the engine sounds as "racing," "uneven," and "loud."
Weather Conditions
Weather at the time included fog, low ceiling, and light rain. Another pilot flying the same type of aircraft was unable to land due to these conditions.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. The approach navigation aid facilities were flight-checked and found operational. There was no evidence of pilot physical impairment or incapacitation. The aircraft impacted the ground in a near-vertical attitude. All four occupants were killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
The official findings identified the accident as an in-flight collision with terrain during the approach phase. Contributing factors included low ceiling, fog, and rain weather conditions. Pilot errors were also cited: inadequate aircraft handling, improper instrument flight rules (IFR) procedures, failure to maintain airspeed, and an inadvertent stall.