Overview
On the day of the event, witnesses observed the aircraft during departure and after its return to the airport. The pilot executed a series of maneuvers that culminated in an impact with the ground.
Departure and Return
Upon departure, the pilot abruptly pulled the aircraft nose up and rolled into a very steep, climbing right turn. The flight proceeded for about 20 minutes, after which the pilot returned to the airport because of weather conditions along the intended route.
Events Over the Airport
After returning, the pilot performed a vertical climb and entered a hammerhead stall at an estimated altitude of 200 to 400 feet above ground level. The aircraft then descended and struck the ground in a steep nose-down attitude.
Investigative Findings
Examination revealed no evidence of physical or mechanical malfunctions. Weather conditions were not determined to be a causal factor in the accident.