Accident Sequence
A ground witness reported that the airplane's initial climb after takeoff was at a slow rate and the landing gear remained extended. A flight instructor, who was flying above and behind the airplane, saw it pitch up and enter a two-turn left spin. The instructor then observed the airplane descend steeply and crash, with the landing gear still extended. The accident site was located approximately 3 miles from the departure airport.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact failure of the airframe or engine. The airplane had departed with full fuel tanks, three occupants, and 159 pounds of baggage. Its weight was about 124 pounds above the maximum gross weight.
Preflight Icing Condition
Before the flight, the pilot requested that a lineman brush snow off the airplane. After the snow was removed, light icing remained on the inboard portion of the wing and on the left inboard section of the horizontal stabilizer.