ERA26FA294

On August 9, 2026, at about 1655 central daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Avid Mark IV, N77FB, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Arp, Texas. The private pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. According to witnesses, the accident airplane and a second airplane had landed in a grass field earlier in the afternoon. The accident airplane subsequently departed the field first and remained in the vicinity while the second airplane departed. Witnesses reported that after takeoff, the accident airplane was flying at a low altitude and appeared to be moving slowly as it maneuvered near the second airplane. The accident airplane then entered a steep left bank, followed by a steep descending turn. The airplane subsequently impacted trees and terrain adjacent to the field. The airplane came to rest with all major components located at the accident site. The fuselage sustained impact damage, and both wings remained attached to the fuselage. Examination of the airframe confirmed flight control continuity, and no evidence of preimpact flight control anomaly was observed. Both wing fuel tanks remained intact and contained fuel. Examination of the engine confirmed mechanical continuity and compression on all cylinders. No evidence of a preimpact mechanical anomaly was observed that would have precluded normal operation. An electronic flight instrument was recovered and retained for further examination.