Accident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft involved in a local training mission crashed near Lake City after stalling and striking trees. The aircraft was carrying three crew members and several skydivers (firefighters) on behalf of the US Forest Service at the time of the accident.
Sequence of Events
The crew had completed two successful missions prior to the accident. During the approach over Lake City, the pilot-in-command reduced speed to allow the skydivers to bail out. Shortly thereafter, the airplane stalled, struck trees, and crashed in a wooded area.
Injuries and Damage
One crew member was killed, and two others were seriously injured. The aircraft sustained substantial damage in the crash.
Probable Cause
Official findings determined that the pilot-in-command misjudged distance, speed, and altitude following a poorly planned approach. High density altitude and downdrafts/updrafts were considered as contributing factors.