Accident
Following a night departure from Tallahassee Airport, a twin-engine airplane entered instrument meteorological conditions while climbing. During the climb, the aircraft descended and collided with terrain, resulting in its destruction. All three occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Investigation
The official investigation determined that the accident was a controlled collision with ground during the climb to cruise altitude. The pilot failed to maintain a positive rate of climb, leading to the descent into terrain.
Contributing Factors
Investigators identified several contributing factors: the pilot misread or failed to read instruments; a low ceiling of 200 feet; and fog.