Accident Overview
Shortly after a night takeoff from Cincinnati-Lunken Field Airport, the airplane entered initial climb in foggy conditions. During the climb, the airplane rolled to the left. The pilot attempted to regain control, but the airplane struck trees and crashed into the Miami River.
Occupants and Injuries
The pilot and one passenger were killed, and a second passenger sustained serious injuries.
Circumstances
The accident occurred at night, with low ceiling and fog limiting visibility. The airplane drifted left after takeoff and then rolled into trees.
Probable Cause
The official investigation found the probable cause to be loss of control after takeoff due to several errors on the part of the pilot. Contributing factors included premature liftoff, spatial disorientation, failure to maintain directional control, failure to obtain flying speed, low ceiling and fog, limited visibility, and drifting left after takeoff before rolling into trees.