Accident Sequence
According to a surviving passenger, the takeoff and initial climb rate appeared normal. About 1 1/2 to 2 minutes into the flight, the airplane unexpectedly and without warning went hard right and pitched straight down into the ground.
Witness Observations
Ground witnesses reported that the airplane was 150 to 200 feet above the ground and did not appear to gain any additional altitude. One witness, located on an access road just north of the airport, had a profile view of the airplane during most of the accident sequence. This witness reported an "excessive" angle of attack on the takeoff. He observed the nose pitch down and estimated the airplane was about 100 feet above the ground. He then saw the nose pitch up again, increasing the angle of attack. The pitch attitude was steep; the witness noted he could see the tops of the wings. He stated that the airplane flew straight ahead under controlled conditions but appeared to be "mushing" through the air. He lost sight of the airplane as he rounded a bend in the road. When he saw the airplane again, it was in a left descending spiral.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the airframe or engine.