Accident Sequence
The pilot conducted an intersection takeoff with 5,450 feet of runway remaining. A tower controller observed that the airplane did not become airborne while on the runway, though it was seen increasing speed during the takeoff roll. No evidence of an aborted takeoff was found. Markings on the grass overrun matched the distances between the airplane's landing gear. Beyond the overrun, the airplane became airborne but then descended, striking a tree, the terrain, and a railroad track before coming to rest.
Examination Findings
The cockpit control lock for the elevator and ailerons was found in place. Numerous parts of the airplane sustained fire damage; however, no physical evidence indicated an in-flight fire, and no anomalies were discovered that would preclude engine operation. The right propeller piston position was in a low blade angle range; the blade angles for the left propeller could not be determined. The propeller blades exhibited striations, nicks, gouges, bending, and/or twisting.