On January 5, 2008, about 1615 eastern standard time, an amateur-built Genesis airplane, N969PZ, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain, after a loss of control during the initial climb after takeoff from Suburban Airport (W18), Laurel, Maryland. The certificated private pilot sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) flight plan was filed for the local flight. The personal flight was conducted under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.

The airplane was built by the pilot, who was conducting its first test flight.

The pilot stated he departed from runway 21, a 2,324-foot-long, asphalt runway. During the initial climb, the engine's exhaust gas temperature readings were "redlined"; however, he considered the airplane's angle of attack normal for the climb. Shortly thereafter, at an altitude of 400 to 500 feet, the airplane rolled sharply to the left. The pilot momentarily regained control, before losing control again, with the airplane pointed straight down, toward the ground. The airplane was equipped with a parachute system, which was successfully deployed by the pilot. The airplane subsequently impacted trees during the descent, before coming to rest on the ground, in a wooded area.

Examination of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector did not reveal evidence of any mechanical malfunctions or other evidence to explain the loss of control.

The pilot reported that the airplane's airworthiness certificate was issued on June 29, 2007. During the subsequent months, the airplane became airborne several times during taxi tests without any controllability problems. The airplane had been operated for 5.2 total hours at the time of the accident flight.

The airplane was constructed of fiber glass and fabric on a tubular frame and equipped with a Rotax 912ULS series engine. According to paperwork filed with the FAA, the airplane was built by the pilot utilizing a kit manufactured by Slipstream International.

The pilot reported 125 hours of total flight experience, on his most recent application for an FAA third class medical certificate, which was issued on July 25, 2007.

Winds reported at an airport located about 4 miles east of the accident site, about the time of the accident, were from 140 degrees at 4 knots.