Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that the electric starter would not start the engine, so he hand-propped it. Before attempting the start, he instructed his passenger, seated in the right seat, on how to use the "T" handle brake system – specifically, that the handle had to be pushed in for the Johnson brake bar to engage. The pilot then set the throttle between one-quarter and three-eighths of an inch.
When the engine started, it produced high power, and the aircraft began moving forward. The pilot was knocked down as the aircraft accelerated across the airport. It continued across a runway and a taxiway before colliding with a fence and trees in a park located to the west side of the airport.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he did not understand how the brake could have been released. No tie-downs or wheel chocks were used during the operation.
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained damage from the collision with the fence and trees.