Accident Details
A private pilot lost control of an experimental amateur-built airplane while maneuvering near the destination airport, resulting in a descent to ground impact. The accident aircraft was traveling as part of a group of four airplanes en route to a fly-in event.
According to other pilots in the group, the accident airplane performed a low pass near the destination airport. Shortly after, the airplane pitched nose up, gained altitude, then pitched nose down, followed by a rapid descent until it struck terrain in a near-vertical attitude.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane and engine revealed no anomalies that would have prevented their normal operation. No pre-existing mechanical or structural issues were identified.
Circumstances
The accident occurred while the pilot was maneuvering in the vicinity of the destination airport. The specific nature of the maneuvering and the reason for the loss of control were not determined from the available evidence. The pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft.