What happened
While departing from runway 22, the pilot transmitted a report of a technical issue before all radio contact with the aircraft ceased. During the initial climb, bystanders noted an object detaching from the plane, with one observer specifically noting the opening of a compartment hood. The aircraft was subsequently directed toward a final approach for runway 36.
As the aircraft aligned with the approach path, it entered a sharp bank and descended rapidly out of view. The plane struck a group of trees while in a 27-degree descent, leading to a crash and subsequent fire. Investigators located a bag from the nose baggage compartment near the departure end of runway 22.
Findings
An investigation into the wreckage revealed no evidence of mechanical failure or system malfunctions prior to the impact. While a ground crew member had seen the pilot adding oil to the left engine before departure, it was unconfirmed if the baggage door had been properly closed. Although the rear latch assembly of the recovered door showed no defects, the area containing the forward latch assembly was too heavily damaged by fire to allow for a complete assessment. The accident resulted in three fatalities.