What happened
The pilot landed an aircraft on a dirt road located near a farm machinery concern. After completing necessary business at the location, the pilot attempted an eastbound takeoff using the dirt road, which provided approximately 2,000 feet of usable distance.
Once the aircraft became airborne, it remained at an altitude too low to clear power lines situated at the end of the road. Witnesses observed the pilot initiating a left turn in an attempt to avoid the power lines; during this maneuver, the left wing tip made contact with the ground. The aircraft then cartwheeled to a stop in an adjacent cotton field. All occupants were not injured. Witnesses noted that the takeoff attempt occurred during conditions of heavy and gusting winds coming from variable directions.
The investigation
An FAA inspector performed an examination of the aircraft. The inspection revealed no evidence of any mechanical failure or malfunction occurring prior to the impact.