Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane cruising at altitude suddenly went out of control, entered a spin, and crashed in flames near Vancleave. The aircraft was totally destroyed, and all three occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be engine failure and fire during normal cruise, resulting from a crankshaft failure. Contributing factors included fatigue fracture of the crankshaft, fire in the engine, leakage in the lubricating system tubing, fire in the brakes/wheel assembly/wheel well, and separation in flight.
Crankshaft Failure Details
Specifically, the crankshaft (serial number 21772) failed due to fatigue cracks located at the #5 connecting rod throw. This failure led to an in-flight fire and loss of control, culminating in the crash.