NTSB Factual Report

On July 24, 2001 at 1317 eastern daylight time, a Kolb Twin Star, Mark III, N703BL registered to the pilot, impacted the ground in a backyard of a single family dwelling in Edgewater, Florida. The personal flight was conducted by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 CFR 91with no flight plan filed. Visual weather conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The airplane was substantially damage. The private pilot received serious injuries. The flight originated from Massey Ranch Airport, New Smyrna Beach, Florida at 1310.

The pilot stated that shortly after takeoff from Massey Air Ranch Airport on runway 18, he experienced a loss of control of the airplane during his second left turn. The pilot stated that the elevator and aileron did not respond to the movement of the control stick. The pilot stated that he tried to use engine power to regain control of the airplane. The airplane collided with the ground as the pilot attempted to regain control. Witnesses stated that they heard the engine sputtering prior to the impact with the ground.

Examination of the airplane revealed continuity existed between the control stick and the elevators. Examination of the control stick showed continuity through the aileron torque tube to the right and left push pull tube. Examination of the of the actual ailerons, flaps and rudder were not performed due to the substantial damage to those systems.

NTSB Probable Cause

The loss of flight control in-flight for undetermined reasons, that resulted in the uncontrolled collision with the ground.