May 3, 2006, Aguila, Ariz. / Schweizer SGS 1-26D

At about 1430 Mountain time, the glider collided with terrain during takeoff. The Private pilot and sole occupant sustained fatal injuries; the glider was substantially damaged. The tow pilot subsequently stated that, with the towplane at about 40 feet agl and the glider airborne, the glider assumed a severe pitch-up attitude. The tow rope separated and the glider climbed to about 150 feet agl. The glider stalled, making a right turn while descending toward terrain.