Incident Overview
Approximately one minute after takeoff, the pilot contacted the control tower to report a problem and indicated the need to circle back around. About 35 seconds after this call, the aircraft impacted the ground adjacent to the departure runway.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that at approximately 200 feet above ground, the engine began producing a 'missing' sound, the fuel flow indicator dropped to zero and subsequently became erratic, and the aircraft experienced violent vibration.
Findings
At the accident site, FAA inspectors discovered fuel in one of the aircraft's tanks. The other tank had been breached and emitted a strong fuel odor. Post-accident examinations of the engine and propeller revealed only two anomalies: low compression on one cylinder and slight wear on one cam lobe. The aircraft's recent inspection and maintenance history showed no discrepancies.