1/2 The tower was closed. He was obligated to use the best available weather source. That source was below minimum weather requirements for the no precision approach. (Sources have also shown he was also shooting an approach not suitable for his aircraft)
Thanks for your very detailed response. There are just so many questions at this time, but "The tower was closed" explains a lot. Have to wait for the investigation (same as with the Mexican sail ship that crashed in NY).
He hit a ridge while at an altitude lower than allowed on that approach. Viz was less than 1/2 mile, the ridge was farther than that away from runway. If you can’t swim and drown halfway across a pool, does it matter if there wasn’t a ladder at the other end? Wrong weather for that approach.
3/4 the investigation will examine all the facts, including this one. These investigation will be at least a year away, and we’ll know more then. I feel for this guy. I have flown in this area and know how tricky night landings are here. I-15 lights could be factor that gave him illusion of runway
4/4 but again, the investigation will consider all this and more. The headline seems important (and is for WaPo engagement) but it’s more complicated.
And to be fair, I must say “based on what information has been put forth”. There are sometimes some big surprises.