What happened
A pilot witness observed the pilot experiencing difficulty starting the engine of the aircraft. During the start sequence, the engine coughed, sputtered, and emitted black smoke from the exhaust, though it ran smoothly once started. After performing a run-up at the stop short position of runway 29, the aircraft taxied onto the runway and began its takeoff roll.
During the takeoff roll, the witness noted that the aircraft was weaving left and right. The aircraft lifted off approximately 1,000 feet down the runway but subsequently descended, bouncing on the nose gear. Following this, the aircraft entered a climb while banking to the left. The aircraft underwent another descent before climbing again, maintaining a left bank, until it disappeared behind a line of trees.
The investigation
An examination of the wreckage was conducted, which revealed no anomalies regarding the engine or the airframe.