Accident Overview
The airplane was destroyed when it impacted trees, power lines, and terrain during takeoff. The pilot, a student pilot–rated passenger, and two other passengers were fatally injured.
Witness Accounts
A witness observed the accident airplane taking off in the same direction as a preceding aircraft. The witness noted the airplane was not very high off the ground and saw its red and green lights but did not see a headlight or landing light. Seconds later, the witness heard a sound like a crash or explosion, and the lights in the house went out. Another witness reported a flash of light and saw a fire in front of his house and in the street. Small fires appeared throughout the area but extinguished quickly. The witness described the night as cloudy and very dark, and noted that the airplane noise came from a different direction than usual.
Pilot Statement
The pilot of the preceding aircraft stated that during his own takeoff, he leaned forward as his window partially fogged. He used his landing light to align with the runway centerline and maintain heading until visual cues were acquired. The accident pilot reported seeing only one side of the runway lights on approach and did not notice runway lights during takeoff.
Post-Crash Examination
An on-scene investigation revealed no anomalies. Flight control continuity and engine control continuity were established. The engine produced thumb compression on all cylinders, and the left magneto produced spark on all leads. Fuel was present in the fuel selector valve. The propeller blades exhibited chordwise abrasions. A section of power line was missing.
Weather Conditions
The weather at the time was: wind calm; visibility 10 statute miles; sky condition clear; temperature -20°C; dew point -21°C; altimeter 30.11 in Hg.
Operator's Safety Recommendation
The operator relayed a recommendation from the pilot of the preceding aircraft, who stated: "We should have departed to the south. The wind was calm. But there are more lights, from a beacon, buildings, few houses etc. Simply more to reference ... the horizon."