Accident Overview
The airplane impacted the terrain approximately 2,065 feet south of the departure end of runway 22. The wreckage path was on a heading of 208 degrees, and the distance from the initial impact point to the location of the empennage was about 142 feet. Damage to the cockpit section indicated a nose-down crush angle of approximately 80 degrees. The cockpit and cabin were destroyed by post-impact fire.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the engines and propellers revealed no preexisting failures or conditions that would have prevented normal operation. The engines exhibited indications of rotation, and witness marks on both sets of propellers were consistent with operation in the governing range at impact. Control continuity was established from the right aileron, elevator, and rudder.
Witness Reports
Witnesses reported that the airplane appeared to be operating normally during taxi and takeoff. However, after clearing a 100-foot powerline located about 1,800 feet from the departure end of runway 22, the airplane entered a steep left bank. Following the steep left turn, the nose dropped and the airplane impacted the ground.
Maintenance Records
There was no evidence in the airplane's maintenance records of any annual maintenance inspection since August 1997, although an airframe and powerplant mechanic reported that he had completed an inspection on June 30, 1999. Additionally, there was no record of compliance with five airworthiness directives applicable to the airplane.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed, which resulted in a stall, inflight loss of control, and collision with the ground.