Flight Sequence
The pilot took off, flew to another airport, and made a landing. After landing, he taxied back to the runway for the return flight. After takeoff, he climbed about 500 to 750 feet and began a turn to downwind, then noticed the airplane would not climb despite full throttle. He tried to land back on the airport. He said he 'rechecked the throttle, fuel shutoff valve on, ignition switch both, carburetor heat, off, mixture, in.' Subsequently, the airplane descended, struck the tops of 2 houses and a utility pole, then came to rest in the front yard of a residence.
Post-Accident Examination
No preimpact part failure was found, and fuel was drained from the carburetor.
Weather Conditions
The temperature and dew point were 76 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. According to icing probability curves, conditions were conducive for carburetor ice.