What happened
During an instrument flight rules (IFR) departure, the pilot was navigating through progressive altitude clearances, with instructions to climb to 15,000 feet. While climbing through 14,000 feet, the pilot was vectored and instructed to level off briefly before continuing the ascent. Radar monitoring showed a consistent climb until the aircraft reached approximately 13,000 feet. However, as the aircraft ascended from 13,300 feet to a maximum recorded altitude of 13,900 feet, its airspeed decreased significantly from 115 knots to less than 80 knots.
Shortly after being cleared to proceed direct and change frequencies, the aircraft deviated from its assigned course and entered a steep descent. Radar contact was subsequently lost, and the aircraft underwent an inflight breakup. Debris, including portions of the wings and stabilizers, was located up to 1.5 miles away from the main fuselage. A trajectory analysis determined that the structural failure occurred at an altitude between 6,000 and 9,000 feet MSL. The sole occupant of the aircraft, the pilot, was killed in the accident.
Findings
Investigation of the fractured major components showed damage consistent with structural overstress, though no pre-existing cracks were identified. There was no evidence of autopilot malfunction or a bird strike. Environmental conditions included layered clouds up to 20,000 feet, with the freezing level situated at approximately 12,500 feet. Evidence suggests the aircraft was likely within or near convective precipitation above the freezing level for roughly 90 seconds prior to the rapid descent. Notably, the investigation found the pitot heat switch in the 'off' position and the induction air door in its primary position.