Accident Overview
A pilot arrived at the airport and was driven by a witness down the runway strip to examine its condition. The witness advised the pilot not to take off because the strip was too wet. However, the pilot, a surgeon, stated he had three operations scheduled the following morning and needed to return.
Pre-Takeoff Maneuvers
According to the witness, the pilot first ran the aircraft from north to south on the runway to check for standing water. He then made a second run toward the north to initiate the takeoff.
Takeoff and Accident Sequence
The aircraft left the ground and reached approximately 20 feet above ground level. At that point, it turned toward the northwest corner of the runway, heading toward tall pine trees. The witness reported that the pilot pulled back, the aircraft stalled, and fell flat at the north end of the runway. The wind had switched to south-southwest as the aircraft took off.
Impact and Runway Conditions
The aircraft impacted near the end of the runway and subsequently hit a ditch. Reportedly, there was standing water and grass 6 to 10 inches tall on the runway. Witnesses observed large rooster tails of water behind the aircraft during its takeoff roll.
Conclusion
The accident sequence involved a takeoff from a wet runway with standing water and tall grass, followed by a stall at low altitude and impact with terrain.