What happened
Witnesses observed the aircraft during its takeoff roll near the departure end of Runway 25. According to accounts, the aircraft initially lifted off the runway but subsequently settled back down onto the surface before lifting off a second time.
Following this second liftoff, the aircraft immediately executed a left turn and began to reverse course. Witnesses noted that the aircraft was flying at a slow airspeed with visible wing rocking as the turn commenced. The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 50 feet AGL and was positioned about 300 feet south of the departure end of the runway when it abruptly pitched down and descended to the ground.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. Additionally, a postmortem examination of the pilot showed no evidence of physical impairment or incapacitation.