The annual Miramar airshow is normally a thrilling and positive spectacle that shows the world the value and excitement inherent in aviation. Friday, it also showed that with such wonderment, comes some occasional risk.

The Friday show, underway since 0930, was interrupted when airshow pilot Sean deRosier (pictured, right) was seen coming out of a "looping maneuver" and impacting the ground. Airshow emergency staff was on the scene rapidly, airlifting deRosier, (31) of Nut Tree, CA, with a Yuma Search and Rescue helo to nearby Scripps Memorial Hospital.

Tragically, deRosier was reported DOA at the hospital. Worse, it is reported the deRosier's parents witnessed the crash.

A statement released by his parents, said that "He was a great son, a great pilot. He loved airplanes and he loved to fly. We will miss him deeply."

The show, expecting to draw some 700,000 people, went on some hours later, with a moment of silence dedicated to Sean's memory. Brig. Gen. Carl B. Jensen, commanding general of western Marine air bases, noted that, "Sean, in any event, would have wanted to continue this air show and that is what we're going to do. That's what professionals do." [ANN Note: Well said, Sir... well said. -- Jim Campbell, ANN E-I-C]

deRosier was flying a modified One Design, nicknamed the Cabo Wabo Skyrocket, which he and his Father constructed from plans. Powered by a modified Lycoming of 210 HP, the 900 lb single seater won a 1999 Outstanding Workmanship Award for a plans-built airplane at Oshkosh '99.

The accident reportedly occurred at 1015. The aircraft impacted between runways and appeared to have been recovering from a loop or some other vertical transition when impact took place. "I thought it was going to come down and do a low fly-by... It was pretty close to the deck. Then it went behind some tents. I heard a thud and then I saw it skidding past." said USMC Lance Cpl. Casey Roach. Cpl. Roach added that he saw no explosion, "just a lot of dust."

The crash is under active investigation. Media reports quoting Maj. Curtis Hill, public affairs director for MCAS Miramar report that officials are asking the public for "video footage or photographs" of the flight in order to augment the investigation.

ANN sends its prayers and support to the family and friends of this exceptional aviator. DeRosier is survived by his parents, a girlfriend, and two stepchildren.

It is the second fatal airshow crash, during an active airshow, within a month -- occurring after several years of exceptional safety for the industry. More information to follow...

FMI: www.highvoltageairshows.com