Flight Details
The pilot obtained a weather briefing and filed an IFR flight plan prior to takeoff at approximately 0816 Central Daylight Time. At about 0820, the aircraft was radar identified about 1 mile south of Round Rock, Texas, heading eastbound. The pilot was issued an IFR clearance as filed and cleared to climb from 2,000 to 7,000 feet. Approximately 1 minute later, an air traffic controller noticed the aircraft had turned northbound and queried the pilot, but the pilot's response was unreadable. Shortly after, radar and radio contact were lost.
Witness Account
A witness stated she heard "the roar of airplane engines" but also said "it seemed to be having engine trouble." She reported that the aircraft banked right as if to land, but hit a fence, and then a huge fire erupted.
Investigation
The aircraft was demolished by fire. Both engines were disassembled and inspected, but no failures were noted, except that the left engine oil sump was pushed in.
Weather Conditions
Weather at Austin, Texas, was reported as: 400 feet overcast, visibility 1/2 mile with fog.