Accident Overview
A single-engine airplane operating on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan was climbing through clouds shortly after takeoff. A witness heard the engine power surging and subsequently observed a bright flash at ground level. Another witness saw the airplane descending and flying past before noticing a bright flash and hearing the crash.
Impact and On-Scene Findings
The airplane struck an electrical powerline and a tree before colliding with the ground and sliding to a stop. An on-scene investigation revealed the presence of water in the carburetor float and accelerator pump chambers. Additionally, the commutator of the turn-and-slip indicator's electric motor was found with a groove worn around it, and a black powdery substance was permeating the internal mechanism of the instrument.
Pilot Interview
During an interview with the pilot, he stated that he had taken a fuel sample from each fuel sump on the airplane during his pre-flight walk-around inspection. The pilot was unable to recall the events that took place after entering the clouds.
Investigation Status
The investigation did not assign a probable cause. The report notes the presence of water in the carburetor and wear on the turn-and-slip indicator, but no causal link was established between these findings and the accident.