What happened
Following departure from the airport, the pilot contacted Charleston Approach Control to request an IFR clearance for the intended flight path. In response, the air traffic controller directed the pilot to continue under VFR conditions. The pilot then attempted to communicate with the Washington Center to secure the necessary clearance.
During this period, the controller lost both radar contact and radio communication with the aircraft. The aircraft type subsequently struck the upslope of high terrain. At the time of the impact, the local weather was characterized by poor visibility due to the presence of snow, sleet, and fog. The site of the collision was located approximately 14 miles from the departure airfield.
Findings
Post-accident investigations included toxicological analysis of the pilot. The testing results confirmed the presence of benzoylecgonine in the pilot's system.