Accident Details
The pilot began the takeoff roll on a private 1800-foot grass strip bordered by trees. Approximately 1575 feet from the threshold, a parked aircraft was situated near the left side of the strip, with its right wing protruding over the runway area. While taking off with a right quartering tailwind, the left wing of the departing aircraft struck the top of a tree at about 50 feet above ground level (82 feet mean sea level). The tree was located roughly 90 feet beyond the parked aircraft and near the left edge of the runway. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed into a lake near the end of the runway. According to reports, the engine was operating at high power when the accident occurred.
Environmental Conditions
Weather conditions reported 15 miles north at Orlando, Florida, included: scattered clouds at 4100 feet, visibility 7 miles, wind from 090 degrees at 10 knots, temperature 87°F, and dew point 62°F.
Post-Accident Testing
Two blood tests were performed on the pilot. One serum test indicated a very low level of alcohol, but the other test was negative for both alcohol and drugs.