The airplane was destroyed shortly after takeoff at 0905 Pacific time when it impacted terrain about 300 feet from the departure end of the runway. The pilot/owner and mechanic passenger were killed. Visual conditions prevailed for the post-maintenance test flight. Witnesses reported hearing the engine sputter and observed smoke emanating from the cowling on the takeoff/initial climbout. Witnesses then observed the airplane make a left turn, enter a spin and impact the ground. After the airplane impacted the ground it burst into flames. The flight was the first for the airplane following installation of an overhauled engine.
