Departure and Initial Climb
The pilot was departing on the first leg of a cross-country flight. Density altitude was computed to be about 7700 feet. The pilot reported the wind was six to eight knots down the runway. According to the pilot, "I commenced the initial takeoff roll and the aircraft became airborne at about 80 knots. Power indications were normal."
In-Flight Event
As the pilot ran out of runway, he retracted the wheels and slowly reduced the flap setting from ten degrees to zero degrees. The pilot stated, "I sensed a forced landing situation impending as the airplane stabilized at about 85 mph with full throttle giving only partial power."
Witness Observations
Witnesses stated that the engine sounded normal throughout the brief flight and the airplane appeared to be on the verge of a stall/mush condition.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination of the airplane and the engine systems failed to find any discrepancies.