The airplane was destroyed by an impact with terrain at 2035 Central time following an in-flight encounter with weather while maneuvering. The non-Instrument-rated Private pilot and his two passenger were fatally injured. Night instrument conditions prevailed. At approximately 2032, the pilot reported that he was descending to 2500 for avoid clouds at his altitude. ATC advised they were showing him at 1700 feet and asked if he needed assistance. The pilot said he needed to turn south and was advised of an airport six miles northwest. Radio and radar communications were lost at that time.
