Accident Overview
A pilot flying to an airport for a fly-in event planned to perform aerobatic maneuvers. The pilot held a low altitude waiver allowing maneuvers down to 500 feet above ground level (AGL). Prior to the flight, the pilot informed several spectators of an intention to execute a maneuver immediately after takeoff.
Sequence of Events
Witnesses reported that the engine sounded normal during the takeoff. Shortly after lift-off, the pilot activated the airshow smoke system. At an estimated altitude of 200 to 300 feet AGL, the pilot performed a rapid right roll. Witnesses described this as a snap roll. The aircraft rolled approximately 90 degrees past one complete rotation, then the nose pitched downward, and the airplane crashed in a near-vertical attitude.
Witness Accounts
An airline pilot, who was also the owner of a Bellanca Decathlon, was among the witnesses. Based on his description, the pilot used insufficient rudder to stop the roll after completing one turn. No other details regarding the aircraft, pilot, or environmental conditions were specified in the source.