What happened
The flight was conducted on a frozen lake surface. During the takeoff roll, the landing gear wheel broke through the ice layer. This event created significant aerodynamic drag, which rapidly decelerated the aircraft.
Despite the sudden loss of speed and control authority, the pilot managed to clear a line of trees initially. However, the aircraft continued to bounce along the surface for an estimated distance of 300 to 400 feet. During this uncontrolled ground excursion, the aircraft struck another tree and subsequently ground looped.
The investigation
The physical evidence was compromised before investigators could arrive at the scene. The wreckage was removed prior to the start of the formal investigation. Consequently, no mechanical examination or detailed forensic analysis of the airframe or landing gear was possible.