What happened
During an approach to runway 33, witnesses observed the aircraft flying on a tight right base with a low approach profile. Approximately one-quarter mile east of the runway, the airplane was seen performing a sharp 90-degree right turn toward the north, accompanied by a rapid descent toward the runway surface.
The aircraft's right wing tip struck the runway. Following the impact, the plane exited the runway and came to an upright rest in the area between the runway and a taxiway. The pilot reported that the engines had been lost and noted that the impact was very hard. Witnesses provided varying accounts of the engine status; one observer noted a lack of engine noise, while another reported hearing the engines quit.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aircraft's fuel system and structural integrity following the impact. The right wing tip fuel tank was destroyed, and the left wing tip fuel tank was compromised. Both auxiliary fuel tanks were found to be empty. Additionally, both fuel selector valves were positioned in the auxiliary tank position.