What happened
Operating under an IFR flight plan in instrument meteorological conditions, the aircraft departed and began a flight path characterized by a series of ascents and descents accompanied by left-hand turns. Shortly after the takeoff phase, the pilot notified the departure controller of an unspecified problem. During the flight, observers noted the aircraft frequently transitioning between cloud layers. Witnesses also reported inconsistent engine sounds, ranging from high to low RPM. The flight ended when the aircraft was seen descending at a 45-degree angle with the right wing low, ultimately striking trees and the ground.
Findings
An investigation of the wreckage and systems revealed several mechanical and electrical issues. Investigators identified an intermittent electric gyro system inverter and a broken filament on the power 'out' light bulb for the inverter. While the rotors of the electrically powered gyros showed no rotational damage, the rotor of the vacuum-powered attitude indicator did exhibit rotational damage. Additionally, the toxicology analysis of the pilot's muscle tissue indicated a concentration of 45 mg/dl of ethanol.