Accident Overview
The airplane was destroyed by impact forces and a post-impact fire when it struck terrain about one-third mile northeast of the departure end of runway 20 during takeoff. The aircraft had been cleared for a right turnout after departure.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported seeing the airplane climb to approximately 100 feet above ground level, then veer left. It entered a left bank, became inverted, and impacted the ground in a nose-low attitude. The left and right wings, fuselage, and cockpit were largely consumed by fire.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident inspection revealed the flaps and landing gear were in the retracted position. Aileron control continuity was confirmed from the control yoke to the aileron bellcranks. Elevator and rudder control cable continuity was verified from the bellcranks at the forward bulkhead to the control surfaces.
Engine and propeller examinations indicated the right engine and propeller were producing power in the middle to high power range at impact, while the left engine and propeller were producing power in the low to middle range.
Pilot and Passenger Information
The 60-year-old pilot had accumulated 942 hours of flight experience in the accident airplane. He was described as a very safety-conscious, conservative pilot who performed thorough preflights and adhered to all checklists. The 22-year-old passenger held a pilot rating but had not received any ground or flight instruction in the make and model of the accident airplane.
Toxicology tests were negative for all substances tested. Autopsies revealed no remarkable findings.
Probable Cause
The cause of the accident is undetermined.