What happened
During an approach to the airport, the pilot notified air traffic services that the aircraft was facing headwinds and had approximately 50 minutes of fuel remaining. While the flight was granted preferential handling, the pilot was cleared for an NDB runway 1s approach, which was acknowledged at 17:56:49.
At approximately 18:00, Unicom reported deteriorating weather conditions, including heavy rain, obscured skies, and winds gusting up to 29 knots. Following this report, the pilot made a brief remark regarding runway lights, after which radio communication ceased. An FBO reported hearing several clicks on the frequency, suggesting an attempt to activate lights, but no further contact was established.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude and performing a course reversal before traveling on a southerly heading. The aircraft struck trees and crashed roughly 6 miles west-northwest of the airfield. The primary wreckage was located about 380 feet from the initial impact site. There were 5 fatalities resulting from the accident.
Findings
Investigations determined that there was no evidence of pre-impact mechanical failure or part malfunction. Weather conditions in the nearby Lufkin area at the time of the flight included thunderstorms, heavy rain, fog, and visibility as low as 3/4 mile, with overcast ceilings at 200 feet.