Accident Sequence
During initial climb, the airplane descended into terrain. The aircraft had just lifted off when it reached an altitude of about 25 to 50 feet above ground level before it began descending and impacted the ground.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that when he attempted to rotate the airplane for liftoff, he encountered resistance on the yoke. He continued that as the airplane lifted off, the resistance gave way and the airplane 'popped' into the air. He reported that the airplane reached an altitude of approximately 25 to 50 feet above ground level prior to descending into the terrain.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane failed to reveal the nature of the yoke resistance. The examination determined that control continuity was compromised behind the instrument panel during the impact sequence.