What happened
The pilot and a passenger were operating N64038 on a flight to Cheyenne, Wyoming, with the specific intention of placing the aircraft on static display. Following takeoff, the pilot reported that the engine lost power during the climb-out phase at approximately 300 feet above ground level. Despite attempts to restore power, the pilot was unable to do so and maneuvered the aircraft for an off-airport landing.
A witness observed the aircraft leveling off at approximately 200 feet after takeoff and noted that it did not appear to accelerate. The witness stated that the aircraft began to settle toward the ground approximately 1.5 miles from the airport. During this observation, the pilot was seen executing a shallow turn of about 90 degrees before the right wing made an abrupt dip. Subsequently, the aircraft struck the bank of a road cut in a right-wing-low, nose-high attitude and sustained extensive damage.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the aircraft revealed no pre-impact part failure or mechanical malfunction. Environmental conditions played a significant role in the incident, with calculations showing the density altitude was approximately 7,767 feet at the time of the event.