Accident Details
The pilot/owner of an airplane invited a passenger for a ride. During the takeoff roll, the passenger observed that the airplane seemed to climb vertically with the control stick held fully aft. She noted the left wing dropping, which she interpreted as the pilot initiating a left turn.
Witness Accounts
A private pilot watching from the ground reported that the airplane appeared to ascend straight up. At an estimated altitude of 100 feet, the aircraft executed what the witness described as a 'Hammerhead Stall.' The witness did not hear the engine stop during the maneuver. After the airplane descended below a nearby hill and out of view, the witness heard the sound of impact.
The pilot/owner later told local police that he believed a loss of power occurred, stating that 'the engine just wasn't pulling.' He estimated that the airplane reached an altitude of 600 feet.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the fixed main landing gear had collapsed with minimal ground scarring. Fresh, deep cuts were observed in the dirt of the rough surrounding turf. Additionally, both propeller blade tips were twisted and bent aft.