Flight History
At about 1744 central standard time, the pilot reported encountering headwinds during the flight and indicated he had only 50 minutes of fuel remaining. He was provided preferential handling, though another flight was also low on fuel. The pilot was cleared for an NDB runway 15 approach and acknowledged the clearance at 1756:49.
Weather Conditions
At approximately 1800, the unicom advised current weather as 700 feet broken ceiling, sky obscured with heavy rain, and wind variable from 090° to 240° at 24 knots gusting to 29 knots. The pilot did not acknowledge this weather report, except to calmly state, 'I hope you have your lights on.' Later, the FBO heard several clicks on the unicom, likely to activate the runway lights, after which no further radio contact occurred.
About 42 miles south-southeast at Lufkin, the 1751 CST weather included a 200-foot overcast ceiling, visibility 3/4 mile with thunderstorms, heavy rain and fog, and wind from 020° at 12 knots. The approach minimums for the accident airport were 600 feet ceiling and 1 mile visibility.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft struck trees and crashed approximately 6 miles west-northwest of the airport. Witnesses reported the aircraft was at low altitude and had reversed course before crashing on a southerly heading. The main wreckage came to rest about 380 feet from the initial impact point with trees. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was the pilot's failure to follow IFR procedures and maintain the proper altitude. Factors related to the accident included adverse weather conditions, dark night, low fuel state of the aircraft, and trees at the accident site.