Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that during touchdown, a strong crosswind caused the airplane to "weathervane to the right." The airplane bounced, and as the pilot attempted to recover, he stated that he "overcorrected and the airplane started to run off the right side" of the runway. At that point, the pilot decided to execute a climb out, but the airplane did not have sufficient airspeed to climb and only reached an altitude of approximately three feet.
The airplane subsequently collided with a tree and came to rest partially in a pond. The accident site was located 1,300 feet from the approach end of the runway and 30 feet to the right of Runway 22.
Wind Conditions
At the time of the accident, the wind was from a heading of 280 degrees at 11 knots, with gusts to 19 knots.
Aircraft Examination
The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions with the airplane prior to the accident. Examination of the airplane revealed damage to the wings, the right door panel, and the propeller. A post-accident examination did not reveal any mechanical problems with the airplane.