At about 2032 Eastern daylight time, a Piper PA-28-140, N6493W, was destroyed when it impacted trees and terrain. The private pilot and the two passengers were fatally injured. Night visual conditions prevailed. Nearing its destination and in contact with ATC, the airplane began to descend to 3500 feet msl. It then turned off the established course to the east. When queried by the controller, the pilot turned back on course. No further transmissions were received and moments later radar contact was lost.
