Accident Overview
Witnesses reported that the pilot in command aborted several takeoff attempts while attempting to depart to the north. Winds were from the southwest at approximately 5 mph. The aircraft eventually departed from Runway 36, using nearly the full length of the runway. It broke ground and climbed steeply in an effort to avoid trees, but according to witnesses, the maneuver was unsuccessful. The right wing sheared off as the aircraft careened through the woods before exploding and burning as it came to rest.
Injuries and Rescue
The pilot and passenger were found seriously injured outside the wreckage. However, the almost immediate explosion and conflagration precluded their timely rescue by CFR (Crash Fire Rescue) personnel.
Engine and Fuel Evidence
Samples of auto gas were found in the powerplant. No record of an FAA-approved Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the use of automotive fuel could be produced. According to evidence gathered at the scene, the engine was producing power at the moment of initial impact.