Witness Account
According to a witness on the ground, the pilot-in-command landed from west to east and, after unloading supplies, decided to take off in the same direction. The pilot taxied to the end of the runway and began a turn. During the turn, the witness stated that the tail of the airplane came off the ground.
Runway Obstruction
The witness further stated that the end of the runway was marked with a tarp held down by rocks placed on its corners. As the airplane started its takeoff roll, the witness noticed the tarp was wrapped around the right section of the tail of the airplane.
Attempt to Warn
The witness ran out onto the runway waving his arms, but the pilot did not see him.
Accident Sequence
The airplane lifted off at the end of the runway and did not gain any altitude. The right wing struck a tree, and it cartwheeled into the ground. The airplane was on fire before the witness reached the accident site.