Incident
During the takeoff roll, the pilot lifted the nose wheel of the airplane off the runway early in an effort to "lessen ground drag on the nose." As the airplane reached an altitude of 100 feet, at an airspeed near rotation speed, it encountered a wind gust of approximately "negative 30 knots." The airplane was subsequently "hit from [the] top by wind" and impacted trees off the departure end of the runway.
Pilot Statement
In a post-accident statement, the pilot noted that if given the opportunity to repeat the flight, he would not have attempted the departure due to the wind conditions.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that as the airplane lifted off the runway, it appeared to be moving "abnormally slow" and was "not climbing very quickly." The airplane climbed a "short distance" into the air before being "pushed down." It then gained altitude but did not climb above the height of the trees beyond the departure end of the runway. The airplane flew in a wings-level attitude straight into the tree line and moments later erupted in flames.
Weather and Radar
Weather reported at the time of the accident included gusting winds and rain. Examination of radar information revealed level 3 convective activity just west of the airport around the time of the accident.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures.