Incident Sequence
According to a passenger, the approach appeared normal until the pilot turned on the landing lights while in the overcast. Seconds later, the aircraft impacted trees, careened out of control, and snapped power lines. It then struck a house roof before coming to rest on the ground. The airplane began to burn as it went through the power lines.
Conditions
The weather at the time was at or above IFR landing minimums. The flight had been in a holding pattern for forty-five minutes prior to commencing the approach.
Investigation
All of the aircraft's systems and powerplants, as well as the FAA approach facilities, were determined to be in working order.
Probable Cause
The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause(s) of this accident to be: proper glide path not maintained by pilot in command, decision height not identified by pilot in command, missed approach not performed by pilot in command, and turning on lights in overcast. Specific findings included: weather conditions of obscuration, fog, and rain; proper glide path not maintained; IFR procedure not followed; decision height not identified; visual/aural perception issues; collision with trees, transmission wires, and a residence; and in-flight collision with terrain.