Flight Sequence
After departing runway 07, the left engine began to run rough. The pilot observed a loss in indicated fuel pressure, and within moments the left engine lost power and ceased operating. Several attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful.
Return Attempt
Faced with a single-engine situation, the pilot initiated an immediate left turn to return to the departure airport. The 270-degree left turn resulted in a loss of altitude and improper alignment with runway 25. As the airplane crossed the airport's access road, the pilot completed a 90-degree right turn.
Impact and Damage
The airplane continued to descend, striking several trees before impacting terrain southwest of the airport. The impact forces separated both engines, the nose landing gear, and the main landing gear from the fuselage. Approximately 3 feet of the outboard section of each wing was crushed upward and aft.
Post-Accident Observations
An FAA inspector noted that the mixture control was in the full rich position and the fuel boost pumps were off. Although the right wing was compromised, visible fuel remained in the left wing.