Departure and Maneuver
The airplane departed runway 33. During the initial climb, the airplane executed a steep roll to the left, pitched down, and descended before impacting terrain.
Witness Observation
A witness reported seeing the airplane "in a high left bank like it was trying to land on runway 15." The witness further stated that the airplane then made an abrupt descent at approximately 45 degrees nose down. At about 50 feet above the ground, the pilot appeared to attempt a level-off. The airplane impacted the ground at a lower angle of attack, estimated by the witness as 15 to 20 degrees.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector, who was at the airport but did not witness the accident, responded to the accident site. The inspector found the fuel selector valve positioned on the left tank, and the left fuel tank was empty. The right fuel tank contained approximately one inch of fuel.
Propeller and Engine Condition
One blade of the propeller was bent under the engine cowling, and the other blade was slightly damaged. The engine had been extensively modified. Disassembly revealed continuity and compression in all cylinders. The left magneto produced spark when turned. In place of a right magneto, the airplane was equipped with an automotive electronic ignition. All eight spark plugs were of the automotive type.
Fuel System Findings
No fuel was present in the engine-driven fuel pump, electrically-driven fuel pump, or fuel injectors.
Data Recorder
The engine data recorder was sent to the manufacturer. The downloaded data was found to be corrupt and meaningless.