Event Description
During the takeoff roll with a glider in tow, the tailwheel of the towplane began to shimmy. The airplane continued accelerating straight down the runway with the shimmy persisting for approximately 100 feet. It then veered to the right. The glider pilot released the towrope and continued straight down the runway. The airplane continued off the right side of the runway onto grass, with its tailwheel remaining on the ground.
Subsequent Maneuvers
The airplane then became airborne, initiating a steep climb to avoid trees. It subsequently entered an aerodynamic stall and impacted the ground in a near-vertical attitude.
Postcrash Examination
Due to extensive impact and postcrash fire damage, no conclusive determinations regarding the airworthiness of the airplane could be made.