Accident Overview
A pilot departed from a lake and, once airborne, reported that the airplane would not climb. As the airplane neared the end of the lake, the pilot stated it would not maintain altitude, necessitating a landing on a road in a housing development adjacent to the departure end of the lake.
Pilot Statement
The pilot said, "I just hit a downdraft at the end of the lake. I just couldn't climb out." He noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane and that the engine was producing sufficient power.
Landing and Impact
During the landing, the airplane struck a tree and a pickup truck. The pickup truck had two occupants, who were not injured.
Weather Conditions
The pilot reported the wind conditions at the time of the accident were from the southeast at 10 knots, with peak gusts to 15 knots.