Accident Details
According to the official investigation, the airplane was destroyed following a collision with trees and terrain approximately three-quarters of a mile north of the airport. On the morning of the accident, the pilot and five passengers had boarded the aircraft for a local sightseeing flight.
Witness Accounts
A co-owner of the airplane, who is a rated pilot, stated that from the ground he observed what appeared to be a normal takeoff. Shortly thereafter, the airplane initiated a descending turn to the west, and the witness lost sight of the aircraft. Another witness, who reported observing the accident from the airport, confirmed that the airplane turned west shortly after departure. During the turn, the airplane appeared to stall, and the witness stated, "... and then went down."
Weight and Balance
The estimated gross weight of the airplane at takeoff was 3,388 pounds, which was 12 pounds below the airplane's maximum gross weight. However, the airplane's center of gravity could not be calculated because the exact location or station of the baggage could not be determined.
Investigation
The investigation is ongoing. No probable cause has been stated in the source.