Sequence of Events
At 2232 EDT, the aircraft was climbing to 15,000 feet when the pilot reported a low oil pressure light to air traffic control. ATC advised that Jimmy Stewart Field was about eleven thirty and 15 miles away. The pilot asked, "Is that a tower field?" ATC responded that they did not know, then advised that Westmoreland County was at two o'clock and about 15 miles, instructing the pilot to turn right 180 degrees, descend, and maintain 4,000 feet.
At 2233 EDT, ATC stated that they believed the Westmoreland County tower was closed down. The pilot expressed uncertainty about where to go, and ATC advised that Pittsburgh was 35 miles away if the aircraft could make it. At 2234:35 EDT, the aircraft was returning to Pittsburgh when the pilot reported zero oil pressure and an oil light. At 2237:27 EDT, the pilot declared an emergency. The flight was cleared to Allegheny County Airport and advised that Monroeville Airport was at a heading of 230 degrees and 5 miles. The aircraft crashed at 2247 EDT.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed a loose flange nut on the left turbocharger feed line that was only finger tight. A test of the connection produced a steady leak. At the crash site, oil was found covering the bottom of the fuselage and empennage.