Accident Overview
A pilot was cleared for an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach and requested to report reaching 3,000 feet on the approach. That transmission was the last contact with the pilot. The aircraft was later located in a soft field approximately six miles from the destination airport. Examination showed the landing gear was retracted and the flaps were extended.
Witness Reports
A nearby fisherman reported hearing the aircraft maneuvering at low altitude. According to the witness, the engines sounded normal but the pitch and intensity of the sound were changing. The noise became quiet just a few seconds before the sound of impact was heard.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found evidence of a fire in the nose baggage compartment, where the cabin heater is located. The cabin heater had a recent history of discrepancies. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident was an inflight fire with the cabin heater as the origin, and unsuitable terrain in which to make a forced landing. A factor related to the accident was the soft terrain.