Sequence of Events
The tower controller reported that the airplane took off and was approximately half a mile from the runway end at about 300 feet above ground level when the pilot radioed that he was 'losing RPM'.
Witness Observations
Witnesses stated that the airplane was flying very low, around 150 to 200 feet. They observed the airplane bank hard to the left and impact the ground with the left wing. The airplane then cartwheeled down a hill and burst into flames.
Destruction and Fire
The majority of the airplane was destroyed by the impact and subsequent post-crash fire.
Engine and Propeller Examination
Examination of both engines revealed normal operational signatures throughout. Examination of both propellers showed damage consistent with the development of power. Both propellers impacted the ground, separated from their respective engines, and tumbled, coming to rest in grassy areas. There was evidence that during the impact, both engines were producing some power and both propellers were rotating. However, the specific amount of power could not be quantified.