Accident Sequence
According to a surviving passenger, during the initial climb after takeoff, the engine suddenly stopped and did not respond to attempts at a restart. The pilot turned the aircraft back toward the airport but was unable to reach the runway. The aircraft impacted large trees in a wooded area, then crashed to the ground and burned approximately half a mile from the airport.
Investigation Findings
A teardown of the engine revealed that the center crankshaft bearing had seized. There was a crack in the engine case in the vicinity of the bearing's oil access port. Additionally, there was evidence that oil had partially bypassed the bearing and flowed into the case.
An acquaintance stated that on a previous occasion, the engine seized while the aircraft was being taxied. The acquaintance further stated that the pilot added oil to the engine, rotated the propeller, restarted the engine, and then flew the aircraft frequently thereafter. Acquaintances also said that the pilot had overhauled the engine in mid-1986, although he was not certified as a mechanic. The aircraft had been modified in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate SA45RM; however, no record was found concerning the overhaul or modification.
A blood test of the pilot showed an alcohol level of 0.07%.