What happened
The aircraft impacted the ground at the airport following an approximate 120-degree turn intended to clear 60-foot trees located at the departure end of the runway. Prior to takeoff, the pilot utilized the grass adjacent to the airstrip because standing water was present on portions of the paved runway. The takeoff roll commenced approximately 500 feet from the beginning of the runway, utilizing hay stubble near a hangar. Additionally, automotive fuel was being used in the aircraft without supplemental type certificate authorization.
During the initial climb, the pilot reported that the aircraft appeared to cease climbing at an altitude of about 50 feet above ground level. Believing he would not be able to clear the trees ahead, the pilot initiated a turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft stalled and was landed with the throttle still fully open. As the plane approached small trees and a hedge row, the throttle was closed. The right wing struck the trees, causing the aircraft to swing to the right before coming to a stop.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the elevator trim was found set almost all the way nose down. This configuration significantly contributed to the inability of the aircraft to maintain a positive climb rate. The pilot stated that the owner of the aircraft, who weighs 200 pounds, had flown the aircraft on its previous flight. Because the owner sat in the rear seat during that flight, he had trimmed the aircraft nose heavy.
Findings
The primary factors leading to this accident were the improper trim setting and the resulting stall. The nose-heavy trim condition was established by the previous pilot who occupied the rear seat. This configuration prevented adequate climb performance, forcing a low-altitude maneuver that resulted in a stall and subsequent impact with trees on the airfield.