Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that the autopilot was malfunctioning during approach and that he was experiencing aileron problems. He subsequently reported a loss of power, managed to restart the engine, and then reported a double power loss. Prior to disappearing from radar, the pilot stated that he was starting one engine. The aircraft then impacted a house.
Occupants and Damage
The five occupants of the house escaped; one sustained minor injuries. Both the aircraft and the house were destroyed by fire.
Fuel and Flight Details
The aircraft had flown 2.2 hours after departing with 166 gallons of usable fuel on board. No evidence of fuel spillage was found from the right wing, which had broken open upon impact with a tree. The house occupants reported hearing and feeling the crash and observing a liquid raining down from a collapsed ceiling in an adjacent room.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed that the aircraft's fuel selectors were in the crossfeed positions. The normal position for operation is the ON position. Crossfeeding of fuel is restricted to emergency use in level flight only.