Accident Details
The airplane sustained substantial damage after stalling on takeoff and impacting terrain. The pilot reported observing approaching weather, describing a squall line approximately two miles west of his location. He also noted that a light rain had started and was accompanied by pea-size hail.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions reported by the Pine Ridge Airport (IEN) automated surface observing system at 1530 included winds from 340 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 21 knots, visibility of 10 miles, and few clouds at 3,300 feet above ground level. The report also noted thunderstorms in the vicinity and lightning in the distance to the west and southwest.
Pilot Account
The pilot recalled taking off to the south and beginning his initial climb. He reported that the aircraft started to buffet and he "knew a stall was coming." In his statement, the pilot noted that the "aircraft stalled on takeoff, not enough altitude for recovery." The aircraft bounced, and the right wing and main landing gear impacted the terrain. The aircraft then nosed over.