What happened
While operating at 17,000 feet MSL, the pilot of N9114Q, a single-engine aircraft, notified Minneapolis ARTCC of encountering rain and ice, expressing an intention to turn back. After receiving clearance, the pilot requested assistance in navigating around the weather to the south. Following instructions from controllers, the pilot initially turned west before turning south again four minutes later. Despite further attempts to maneuver, the pilot reported continued encounters with inclement weather. Following a directive to turn north and then east, radar indicated the aircraft entered a rapid descent. During this phase, the pilot reported to Minneapolis ARTCC that the aircraft was out of control.
Findings
Prior to departure, the pilot had been briefed by Flight Service Station (FSS) regarding convective activity and precipitation developing to the south along the planned flight path. Investigations also noted that the aircraft was operating at a weight approximately 548 pounds over the maximum takeoff weight.