Primary finding
Probable cause
The improper decision by the non-instrument-rated pilot to continue VFR flight into known instrument meteorological conditions resulting in spatial disorientation and loss of control of the airplane. Factors which contributed to the accident were the actions of the radar controller whose vectors and no-gyro vectors most likely contributed to the pilot's disorientation, the adverse weather conditions, and the dark night.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
At 1930, the plt contacted fss & requested destination wx. He was advised that VFR flt was not recommended. At 2017, he contacted ATC center & reported that he '...ran into a little soup...' at 2020, he reported 'i've lost uh my turn indicator...' the non-pilot-rated ATC controller then began providing no-gyro vectors to the pilot. In addition, the controller did not provide the minium vectoring altitude to the pilot. At 2028, the pilot reported '...we're having some...trouble...' the airplane was observed coming down at about a 45 deg angle.
Source record
Factual narrative
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