Accident Details
The airplane was climbing out from an airport with an elevation of 732 feet when it struck trees approximately 6.6 nautical miles south of the airport at an elevation of 3,400 feet. The accident occurred as the pilot attempted to cross over a mountain ridge at its lowest point.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that as the airplane came close to the top of the mountain ridge, the engine lost partial power. After crossing over the ridge, the airplane's undercarriage struck tree tops, causing the aircraft to roll right and nose down. It came to rest on the ground.
Meteorological Information
About 30 miles south at Barre/Montpelier, Vermont, the wind was from 210 degrees at 6 knots. A lenticular cloud was reported over the accident area.
Fuel and Post-Impact Condition
The airplane's fuel tanks were topped off before the flight. Following impact, a fire consumed much of the airplane. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found that would have resulted in the reported power loss.