What happened
During the initial climb phase following takeoff, an agricultural airplane experienced a loss of engine power. After departing, the pilot began a left turn. While at an altitude between 100 and 200 feet agl, the engine ceased to function properly.
The pilot reported that the aircraft immediately rolled to the left, and he was unable to regain level flight. In an attempt to manage the situation, the pilot dumped the airplane's load of insecticide. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground in a nose-first orientation. Upon impact, the engine separated from the fuselage, and the wreckage came to rest in a nose-down position.
The investigation
Investigators performed an examination of the engine to identify any mechanical failures. The inspection revealed no evidence of any discrepancies that would have prevented the engine from operating correctly.