Incident Overview
The pilot-in-command reported that approximately 40 feet above ground level after takeoff from a 1,500-foot grass field, the airplane "would not climb hardly enough to clear the first set of trees." According to the pilot, he "could not get the nose down to gain airspeed. Turned aileron left, plane went right headed towards antiques airplanes. Used only rudder, and it turned left but went into a full stall hitting trees." The aircraft came to rest after impacting a tree line and a chain-link fence.
Witness and Investigation Findings
Witnesses to the accident reported that the airplane's engine was operating at full power at the time of the accident. Post-accident investigation revealed no anomalies with the aircraft or engine. Control continuity was confirmed for both roll and pitch axes, with no anomalies found.
Pilot's Statement
The pilot further stated, "When we arrived at the field that morning someone was in the cabin with the door open. I believe he or someone tampered with the controls." No evidence of tampering was reported in the investigation findings.