Takeoff Attempt from Soft Grass Strip
The pilot attempted a takeoff from an 1,800-foot grass strip with an uphill slope. The turf was soft and the grass was 6 to 10 inches high. The aircraft's load consisted of the pilot, three adult passengers, and 52 gallons of fuel.
Aborted Takeoff Decision
Approximately three-quarters down the runway, the aircraft had not reached lift-off airspeed. The pilot thought it was too late to initiate an aborted takeoff.
Rotation and Gear Retraction
The pilot rotated the aircraft and retracted the landing gear in an attempt to achieve takeoff.
Collision with Trees
The aircraft struck several trees 8 to 10 feet high at the departure end of the runway.
Crash into Field
After striking the trees, the aircraft crashed into an adjacent farmer's field.
Investigation Findings
The investigation documented the runway conditions, load, and sequence of events. No causal factors were stated in the report.