What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from runway 32, an unidentified aircraft began a right-hand turn with an estimated bank angle between 30 and 45 degrees. During this maneuver, the aircraft ceased its ascent and transitioned into a descent. The aircraft subsequently struck a line of trees while maintaining the right bank before impacting the ground.
At the time of the accident, visibility was extremely poor due to very dark conditions, with a witness noting a total lack of ambient light and no visible horizon. Following the departure, the flight had only communicated once via radio to obtain IFR clearance.
As a result of the impact, the pilot and passenger sustained serious injuries. Both occupants reported having no memory of the flight sequence.
Findings
An investigation into the mechanical state of the aircraft showed that the engine, propeller, flight controls, and airframe were all intact, with no signs of mechanical failure or malfunction prior to the crash. The autopilot was not engaged at the time of the event, and the circuit breakers for the autopilot system remained in the closed position. The primary contributing factor was the uncontrolled descent and turn into terrain.