Accident Summary
A multi-engine airplane experienced a loss of engine power during the initial climb after takeoff, resulting in a collision with power lines, a house, a tree, and a fence. A second house sustained fire and impact damage from flying debris. The pilot reported that all engine indications were normal until after takeoff.
Events
According to the pilot, he noticed a "split" in manifold pressure and rpm at approximately 50 feet above ground level, indicating a loss of power on the left engine. He turned to the south (left) to avoid obstacles and attempted to land in a field. A pilot-rated passenger reported that after takeoff, the pilot "seemed to be having problems gaining and maintaining altitude." She stated that she thought the pilot was returning to the airport when they began to lose altitude, and that she heard the stall warning horn come on twice during the flight. She was busy making call-outs and looking at airspeed, and therefore did not know which engine had lost power or if the propeller had been feathered.
Inspection Findings
Both engines sustained heat and impact damage. Post-accident inspection of the engines failed to reveal any failure or malfunction that would have resulted in the loss of engine power. Detailed inspection of the left engine propeller revealed that the propeller had not been feathered prior to impact. The airplane information manual states that once the faulty engine is identified and its power loss verified, its propeller should be feathered.