Background
The accident involved a certificated commercial pilot and one passenger on a cross-country personal flight. The departure occurred from a remote airstrip measuring 1,300 feet in length, covered with gravel.
Witness Account
A commercial pilot witness observed the accident airplane as it began its takeoff run to the southeast. According to the witness, the engine sounded "normal" and appeared to be producing full power. Shortly after the takeoff roll started, the witness noticed a large thunderstorm cell approaching the airstrip from the northeast. High winds from the northeast and very heavy rain showers preceded the fast-moving storm. The witness estimated that the thunderstorm cell passed over the departure end of the airstrip at the same time the airplane was departing.
Accident Sequence
The airplane subsequently collided with tree-covered terrain approximately 1,500 feet beyond the departure end of the airstrip. A postcrash fire destroyed the airplane wreckage.
Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical anomalies.