What happened
During the initial climb phase of flight, while performing a dark-night departure, the pilot was unable to maintain sufficient clearance from rising terrain. The impact occurred approximately one and one-quarter mile beyond the end of the runway.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft's engines through teardown inspection revealed no anomalies present prior to the impact. Additionally, visual and teardown inspections of the propellers identified damage signatures that were consistent with ground contact occurring in a flat pitch while under significant power. Records from the operator indicated that the pilot had previously operated out of this specific airport. At the time of the departure, the aircraft was approximately 600 pounds below its maximum certificated gross weight.