Incident
Shortly after takeoff from a grassy runway in Northfield, a twin-engine airplane struck tree tops, stalled, and crashed. The aircraft was destroyed. All four occupants were injured, with the pilot sustaining serious injuries. The flight was en route to Cleveland-Hopkins Airport.
Investigation
Investigators determined that the pilot began the takeoff run from a muddy runway with a takeoff distance that was too short. The pilot started the takeoff roll 690 feet short of the departure end due to muddy ground conditions. All runways were muddy. The presence of 92-foot-tall trees approximately 60 feet from the runway end was noted. The pilot failed to use all available runway.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was inadequate preflight preparation on the part of the pilot, who failed to obtain and maintain flying speed during the initial climb. Contributing factors included soft runway conditions, failure to use all available runway, high obstructions, muddy runways, a shortened takeoff roll due to mud, and the presence of tall trees near the runway end.