Accident Sequence
Shortly after takeoff, the airplane stalled and descended to the ground while maneuvering to gain altitude. The aircraft impacted in a field at an elevation of about 4,200 feet msl. According to the pilot, there were no mechanical malfunctions.
Witness Account
A sheriff's deputy, who witnessed the accident, reported that the airplane departed from runway 29. During the initial climb, it barely cleared power lines. The aircraft then performed two 360-degree turns south of the airport before stalling and impacting the ground.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident examination by an FAA inspector determined that the fuel tanks were full at the time of departure. The density altitude was calculated to be about 5,000 feet msl. The airport elevation is 3,993 feet msl. The pilot recommended that the accident could have been prevented by taking off with less weight and at cooler temperatures.