What happened
The aircraft was operating during the initial climb phase of flight. At an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level, the right engine experienced a loss of fuel pressure. This condition quickly escalated, resulting in a complete loss of power on that side of the airframe. Meanwhile, the left engine continued to function normally.
Despite the asymmetrical thrust, the pilot did not feather the propeller of the affected right engine. Consequently, the aircraft began to decelerate significantly. The airspeed dropped below critical levels, initiating a minimum control velocity roll. The pilot was unable to maintain directional control as the aircraft entered an unrecoverable attitude.
The aircraft subsequently crashed into a building and an adjacent parking lot. A fire broke out after impact, destroying parts of the airframe, including sections of the fuel system. Structures that remained standing were inspected, but no discrepancies were noted in their condition prior to the collision.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage of the aircraft and the surrounding structures. The post-crash fire caused significant damage to the airframe, particularly affecting the fuel system components. While the physical evidence from the crash site was analyzed, the specific mechanical reason for the initial low fuel pressure in the right engine and its subsequent total power loss could not be determined.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this accident was the pilot's failure to feather the propeller of the inoperative engine. This action allowed the aircraft to slow to a point where minimum control velocity was exceeded, leading to a loss of control. The root cause of the engine power loss remains undetermined.