What happened
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot of the aircraft reported that the engine was experiencing a loss of power and indicated an intention to return to the airport. Air traffic control informed the pilot that the aircraft was located 1 3/4 miles south of the airport and advised a left turn to land on runway 33. Following this communication, there were no further radio transmissions from the pilot.
The aircraft struck power lines approximately 25 feet in height and collided with a house. The impact caused the airplane to come to rest on the porch of a second house. Both the aircraft and the second house were destroyed due to the collision and a subsequent post-impact fire.
A witness located approximately 1 1/4 miles from runway 33 observed the aircraft taking off into an overcast ceiling of 600 feet. The witness described the engine noise as loud and unique, noting a heavy beat similar to a cylinder firing directly out of the exhaust. The witness further reported that as the plane passed from right to left, the engine skipped a beat, produced a loud bang, and then went silent.
The investigation
An examination of the engine was conducted following the accident. The inspection did not reveal any evidence of mechanical malfunction that would have prevented the engine from operating.