What happened
During the initial takeoff climb, a multi-engine airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot reported that all engine indications appeared normal until after takeoff. At approximately 50 feet above ground level, the pilot noticed a split in the manifold pressure and RPM, indicating a loss of power on the left engine.
In an attempt to avoid obstacles, the pilot turned to the south. During the flight, the aircraft collided with power lines, a house, a tree, and a fence. A second house also sustained fire and impact damage from flying debris. A passenger-rated occupant noted that the aircraft struggled to gain and maintain altitude and reported hearing the stall warning horn activate twice. The pilot attempted to land the aircraft in a field.
The investigation
Investigators examined both engines and found that both had sustained heat and impact damage. However, a post-accident inspection of the engines failed to reveal any mechanical failure or malfunction that would have caused the loss of engine power. A detailed inspection of the left engine propeller revealed that the propeller had not been feathered prior to the impact.