What happened
Prior to the accident, the pilot placed a fuel order but failed to verify that the twin-engine airplane had been refueled. The aircraft had previously completed a cross-country flight with eight passengers; following that flight, the pilot departed on a repositioning flight as the sole occupant.
Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level, the left engine began to sputter. The pilot performed the engine failure checklist, but upon retarding the left throttle, the aircraft yawed to the left, creating the impression that the engine was still producing power. The pilot chose not to shut down the engine and initiated a right turn to return to the departure airport.
During this turn, the right engine also began to sputter. At this time, the pilot observed that both fuel tank indicators were on empty. The pilot maintained all controls in the forward position and did not attempt to shut down or feather either engine. Realizing the aircraft would not reach the runway, the pilot elected to land in an open field. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a ditch, which caused the left main landing gear to collapse.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary cause of the dual engine failure was fuel exhaustion, as both fuel tank indicators showed empty levels during the flight.