Accident Sequence
The aircraft departed on Runway 13. After climbing to approximately 200 feet above ground level and accelerating to about 125 knots with the landing gear and flaps retracted, the left engine lost power. The pilot aborted the takeoff and maneuvered the aircraft to land on Runway 9. However, the aircraft touched down in the grass after passing the intersection of Runways 9 and 13, heading approximately 110 degrees. Following landing, the aircraft continued across a taxiway. Shortly thereafter, the nose gear failed, causing the aircraft to nose down. Both propellers struck the ground. The right engine mounts failed, and reportedly, the aircraft lunged as the right engine folded under the wing.
Passenger Injury
A passenger whose seat belt was loose was thrown from her seat and sustained an injury. The passenger reported that no preflight passenger briefing was conducted before takeoff.
Post-Accident Examination
Water and products of corrosion were found in the left auxiliary fuel tank and in the fuel lines and strainer for the left engine.
Maintenance and Training Records
Examination of the company's crew training records and aircraft maintenance records revealed numerous omissions, improper entries, and failure to document purported maintenance. These errors had occurred prior to and continued after the Federal Aviation Administration had approved issuance of an air carrier operations certificate for the company.