Accident Overview
A flight departing from Simmons Army Airfield encountered an emergency shortly after taking off from Runway 27. The pilot requested an immediate return to the airport. Witnesses observed the aircraft at approximately 300 feet above ground level when the engine sounded as if it had lost power. The aircraft subsequently entered a 90-degree right bank and impacted the terrain on a heading of approximately 30 degrees.
Post-Impact Fire and Damage
A post-crash fire consumed most of the aircraft fuselage and engine area. Evidence indicated extreme heat and fire damage to the engine accessory area. Despite the fire, continuity of the engine drive train was maintained. The propeller did not show evidence of chordwise scratching or twisting toward low pitch.
Summary
The aircraft departed Runway 27, and after the pilot's request for an immediate return, witnesses reported a loss of engine power at low altitude. The aircraft banked sharply and crashed, with the subsequent fire destroying much of the structure. The engine drive train remained intact, and the propeller showed no signs of typical impact damage.