Before the aircraft took off, fog was noted at the airport. Witnesses reported that the ceiling was about 100 to 200 ft and the visibility was about 1/2 mile. Reportedly, the pilot tried to contact the FSS by telephone; however, only a pay telephone was available at the airport. The pay phone was out of order and could only be used for incoming calls. Also, the pilot was unable to contact the FSS by radio while on the ground. He then stated his intention to takeoff and check the weather while airborne. Witnesses observed the aircraft takeoff and then disappear at about 200 ft AGL. Other witnesses stated that they heard a low flying aircraft and a probable flight path was established around the airport. Two witnesses stated that they stopped hearing the engine before they heard the impact. The plane crashed near the approach end of the runway. The investigation included an engine teardown, but no preimpact failure was found.