What happened
The pilot initiated a takeoff on runway 27 with the wind coming from 060 degrees at 12 knots, gusting up to 23 knots. The density altitude was recorded at 2,100 feet. Witnesses observed the aircraft climbing at a slow speed with a high nose attitude when the engine power was interrupted momentarily. Although power was restored shortly after, the aircraft rolled to the right and began descending from approximately 200 feet above ground level. It crashed in a steep nose-down attitude.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact mechanical failure. The aircraft had been serviced with auto fuel, for which no Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) had been approved. Weight and balance information was not available in the logs; however, using data from when the aircraft was manufactured and correcting for installed fuel tanks, it was estimated to have been 68 pounds over its maximum gross weight limit.
Findings
The temperature was 89 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 68 degrees. According to icing probability charts, serious carburetor icing could have occurred at glide power settings. The carburetor heat control was found in the cold or off position. The combination of high humidity, high density altitude, and excessive weight contributed to the loss of power.
Carburetor icing was identified as a primary factor in the engine power interruption.