What happened
During an instrument flight training session, the aircraft was positioned over the VOR when the left engine experienced a loss of power. The flight instructor (CFI) took control of the aircraft and attempted to restore power to the engine, but the attempt was unsuccessful. Shortly after the initial failure, the right engine also quit.
The CFI attempted to perform an emergency landing at the airport but was unable to reach the intended runway. The aircraft subsequently touched down on soft terrain short of Runway 20, resulting in aircraft damage.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical issues that would have prevented the normal operation of the engines or aircraft systems. During a post-accident check, both engines were found to be operating normally.
Weather conditions at the time included a temperature of 30 degrees and a dew point of 7 degrees. Based on carburetor icing charts, investigators determined that carburetor icing was not a probable factor in the engine failures.