The Accident
The pilot was cleared for a night NDB runway 19 approach to Folsom Field. During the procedure turn and inbound intercept, radar tracking was erratic. Witnesses reported a ceiling of 200 feet and reduced visibility due to fog at the airport. Other witnesses observed the aircraft on a northbound course, then a turn to the west at rooftop height, well below the minimum descent altitude, at a point one mile northeast of the airport. Engine operation sounded normal. The aircraft contacted trees at about airport elevation, one mile north of the airport. The wreckage path measured 632 feet. Examination of severed limbs, propeller damage, and the engine revealed evidence of power at impact. All six occupants were killed.
Pilot Information
The 62-year-old pilot had not flown with a certified flight instructor in years; his instrument currency was unknown. An autopsy revealed severe coronary atherosclerosis with near total occlusion of the right coronary artery and evidence of past total occlusion of the left circumflex coronary artery.
Weather and Lighting
The ceiling was lower than forecast for the area. Sunset occurred at 1745 CST, 51 minutes before the accident. The pilot's medical certificate included a limitation: not for night flight.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings include: (1) weather condition - low ceiling, (2) weather condition - fog, (3) light condition - dark night, (4) object - tree(s), (5) IFR procedure - not followed - pilot in command, (6) visual/aural perception - pilot in command, (7) minimum descent altitude - not maintained - pilot in command, (8) lack of recent instrument time - pilot in command, (9) missed approach - not performed - pilot in command, (10) physical impairment - pilot in command.