Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the pilot rotated the airplane at 80 mph. As the airplane began to climb, the left engine's rpm dropped to 1,500, and the airplane veered left. The pilot reported being unable to maintain altitude or directional control. The airplane then contacted the ground with the left wing first, followed by the nose.
Witness Account
A witness observed the airplane at an estimated height of 15–20 feet above the ground. The witness heard a loud popping noise, after which the engines revved up. The airplane appeared to be preparing to land but instead continued climbing with engine noise louder than normal.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector supervised an examination of the engines, which revealed no mechanical deficiencies. The airplane was released to the owner, who subsequently sold it to a salvage company. During a teardown of the left engine, the salvage company's representative found the main bearing partially seated on the journal. The bearing appeared blue in color. At the time of the accident, the engine had accumulated a total of 1,607 hours since field overhaul.