What happened
During an inbound flight following the Gardner VOR transition for an ILS runway 02 approach, the aircraft descended significantly below the required minimum altitude of 4,000 feet MSL. The aircraft reached an altitude of 2,600 feet MSL, prompting an alert from air traffic control. The pilot indicated a belief that the chart specified a 3,000-foot altitude. Although the aircraft briefly climbed above 2,700 feet, it subsequently descended further to 1,500 feet MSL as it approached the outer marker.
As the aircraft neared the outer marker, which required a minimum intercept altitude of 2,600 feet and a recommended crossing altitude of 2,548 feet, the plane executed an abrupt turn toward the southwest. This maneuver led to a steep descent and a subsequent impact in a wooded area. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, was killed in the accident.
Findings
Investigations into the wreckage revealed no mechanical malfunctions within the aircraft. Additionally, flight inspections confirmed that the navigational aids were operating correctly. While an autopsy was performed on the pilot, results regarding potential physical impairment remained inconclusive. The investigation determined that the pilot failed to follow established IFR procedures, specifically regarding altitude and directional control maintenance.