Incident Overview
A witness arriving at the airport observed that the aircraft was at the fuel pumps with a preheater attached. Frost was present on the aircraft, and the pilot brushed off the loose frost with his hands. The pilot requested a window scraper, which was provided, but the witness did not know what the pilot did with it.
After refueling, the pilot started the engine and remained on the ramp for a short time before taxiing. The takeoff was initiated from a 5,300-foot runway under calm wind conditions. The elevation was 9,927 feet MSL and the temperature was 2 degrees Fahrenheit.
Takeoff and Accident Sequence
Reportedly, the aircraft rolled for more than three-quarters of the runway length before becoming airborne. The witness reported that after lift-off, the aircraft did not gain altitude but remained low, began a left turn, then went down. Another witness observed the aircraft fall from a low altitude and crash in a left-wing-low attitude.
A passenger reported that the plane seemed to slow down and lose altitude after takeoff, as if it was too heavy. However, disregarding any frost or ice, the aircraft was estimated to be 88 pounds below the maximum weight limit.
Investigation Findings
No preimpact mechanical failure was found with the airframe or engine. The investigation did not identify any specific cause for the accident.