At about 0907 Central time, the airplane sustained substantial damaged from tree and terrain impact. The pilot was fatally injured. Instrument conditions prevailed; no flight plan was filed. The flight originated in Millington, Tenn., at about 0825, with an intended destination of Pensacola, Fla.
Several witnesses near the accident site heard a loud-revving engine before the sound of an explosion. Smoke was seen coming from an open meadow and authorities were notified of a possible airplane crash. First responders to the accident reported the weather included low cloud ceilings and drizzling rain.