What happened
The pilot departed the airport in weather conditions characterized by fog and approximately 100 feet of visibility. During the takeoff climb, the airplane initiated a left turn before reaching the end of the runway. While maintaining a 30-degree left bank, the aircraft struck trees located north of the airport. The impact caused both wings to separate from the fuselage and resulted in a postcrash fire.
While the specific aircraft model was not identified, the published departure procedure for the airport requires a climb on the runway heading until an altitude of 2600 feet is reached.
The investigation
Witnesses at the scene reported that the engines sounded smooth during operation. An examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction. Investigators noted that the left propeller had been sheared from the engine due to torsional twisting, and the blades of the right propeller exhibited 'S' curve damage.
Further investigation into the cockpit configuration revealed that the instrument panel was arranged in a non-T layout. This contrasted with the pilot's recent training, as she had received her multi-engine instrument rating 10 months prior to the accident in an aircraft featuring a standard T arrangement. Additionally, it was noted that the pilot was in the process of changing residences and was required to vacate her current dwelling on the day of the accident. The pilot's recent instrument flight experience could not be determined.