Overview
During a landing approach on left base, the left engine of the airplane experienced a loss of power. The pilot, believing the right engine would not produce full power, attempted to land on a road. The airplane struck a tree and subsequently burned.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that when departing the Bahamas, the fuel quantities were: 20 gallons in each main tank, 30 gallons in each auxiliary tank, and 20 gallons in the left wing locker tank. The flight duration was 1 hour and 40 minutes, with a fuel consumption of 31 gallons per hour, resulting in an approximate burn of 52 gallons. During cruise at 6,500 feet, the pilot switched to the auxiliary tanks, drained the left wing locker tank, and then switched back to the main tanks.
Wreckage Examination
Post-accident examination of the wreckage showed that the left engine propeller had not been feathered. The landing gear was found extended, and the left engine cowling was intact. The right engine and the right side of the airplane were consumed by fire damage, while the left engine displayed no fire damage. Both fuel selectors were found positioned to the main fuel tanks.
Engine Test
The left engine was removed and placed on a test stand for a run. The test run revealed no discrepancies; the engine operated normally.
No probable cause was stated in the investigation source.