The pilot reported that, while maneuvering about 1,300 ft mean sea level (about 600 ft above ground), he initiated a 180° turn to the right when about halfway through the turn, the airplane began to descend rapidly and would not respond to flight controls. The airplane struck a tree, spun to the right, and came to rest on a residential house.

Postaccident examination, conducted by the pilot, revealed that all controls were intact and operational.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, empennage, and both wings.

In a written statement provided to the local police department, the pilot reported that he lost control of the airplane and it "spiraled down" and then struck a tree and a house.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.