Incident Overview
During a Part 135 on-demand air taxi cargo flight, the pilot reported an engine malfunction approximately 15 miles southwest of the airport while on approach to land. The flight continued, and the pilot later reported that the engine had stopped when the aircraft was about 5 miles southwest of the airport.
Sequence of Events
A search and rescue helicopter that had just landed at the airport flew toward the aircraft to offer assistance. Because of the dark night conditions, the helicopter crew spotted the aircraft and guided it toward a suitable landing location.
While descending, the aircraft flew between two trees, which severed a 1½-foot section of each wingtip. As the aircraft continued, the left wing struck a tree. The aircraft then spun to the left and collided with terrain. After the pilot evacuated the aircraft, it was consumed by a post-crash fire.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the engine revealed that it had seized due to oil exhaustion. Investigators were unable to determine the reason for the oil exhaustion. Evidence of oil leakage was found on the fuselage, but no source of the leak was identified. The oil filler cap was found properly secured.