Accident Details
The accident occurred when the airplane impacted the ground while maneuvering during a go-around. Witnesses reported that the airplane was approximately 100 feet above ground level (agl) and positioned about midfield on runway 18. The airspeed was described as slightly faster than that of an airplane just after takeoff.
Witness Observations
Suddenly, the airplane's nose pitched straight up and continued over the top, completing what resembled a loop. One witness speculated that the pilot might have been performing an aerobatic maneuver or experiencing a control malfunction. During the loop, the airplane turned slightly to the left and maintained a tail-low attitude. The aircraft then descended and came to rest about midfield, perpendicular to its original heading and facing east.
Post-Impact Investigation
A post-impact inspection of the wreckage confirmed continuity of the flight control system. The aircraft in the area around the time of the accident were described as small, general aviation aircraft.