Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s decision to depart from a non-suitable surface, which resulted in a loss of directional control during takeoff roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff roll from a grass area adjacent the paved runway surface, the airplane’s left main landing gear wheel struck a “muddy pothole.” The airplane’s nose then veered down and to the left and the pilot lost directional control of the airplane. The airplane subsequently struck a fence, and the right wing impacted a tree substantially damaging it. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.