The article seems a bit conflicted. Approaching takeoff speed and getting stopped again in 3500 ft. is a bit much to believe.
Well, it wasn't because of a headwind, NOAA reports only 6 to 8 mph winds all day....:^)
Sounds like a bit of sensationalist reporting...
“The article seems a bit conflicted. Approaching takeoff speed and getting stopped again in 3500 ft. is a bit much to believe.”
No, they were approaching it. They were still very far from it, but they were approaching it.