Accident Summary
A pilot obtained a weather briefing from the flight service station prior to takeoff. Witnesses located on the airport reported that shortly after departure, the airplane reached approximately 150 feet above ground level (agl) while maintaining runway heading. The right wing was low, the landing gear was extended, and the nose was in a climb attitude, but the airplane was not climbing. As it approached the end of the runway, the airplane lost altitude and was described as "mushing along." Subsequently, the right wing rolled to an almost vertical attitude, the nose dropped, the airplane rolled to the left, and it impacted terrain.
Witness and Post-Impact Observations
One witness stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane and that the engine sounded normal. The airplane was destroyed by a postimpact fire. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Weight and Environmental Factors
The airplane was 126.2 pounds over its maximum gross weight at the time of the accident. Witnesses reported gusty wind conditions, thunderstorms in the area, and no precipitation. Weather data revealed environmental conditions that supported dry microburst activity at the time of the accident.