What happened
The pilot had previously visited the airport five times and understood the local operating procedures. Landings were conducted to the north and takeoffs to the south on the single runway 01-19. This configuration was used for noise abatement at the north end of the runway and because the runway slopes upward toward the north.
At approximately 1150, a witness, identified as the daughter of the aircraft owner, observed an aircraft over her house south of the airport. The aircraft was heading toward the airport as if to land on runway 01. At 1154, the same witness saw the aircraft north of the airport flying at a low altitude. The aircraft struck a tree, pulled up, and then stalled. It rolled over to its left side and crashed nose first.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the wing flaps were found in the retracted position. The owner's manual specifies procedures for a go-around climb: apply full power smoothly, remove carburetor heat, and reduce flaps promptly to the half position. At 75 mph, retract flaps slowly to full up. If obstacles are ahead, the wing flaps should be left at the half position until the obstacles are cleared.
Findings
The pilot was aware of the runway's upslope and the associated noise abatement procedures. The aircraft struck an obstacle during a low-altitude maneuver north of the airport. The flaps were retracted despite the presence of an obstacle, contrary to the manufacturer's guidance for obstacle clearance.