What happened
During the takeoff phase of flight, an aircraft struck the terrain approximately 1/3 mile northeast of the departure end of runway 20. Although the flight was cleared for a right-hand turn following takeoff, observers noted that the aircraft climbed to an altitude of roughly 100 feet before veering to the left. The aircraft then entered a left bank, became inverted, and struck the ground in a nose-low attitude. The impact and subsequent fire caused extensive damage, largely consuming the cockpit, fuselage, and both wings.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the aircraft confirmed that the landing gear and flaps had been retracted at the time of the crash. Mechanical investigations found that control continuity was maintained for the ailerons, elevator, and rudder, with no defects found in the cables or bellcranks. Regarding engine performance, the right engine and propeller were operating in a middle to high power range, while the left engine and propeller were producing low to middle power at the moment of impact.
Investigation into the crew revealed that the pilot had significant experience in this specific aircraft, with 942 flight hours recorded. The passenger on board had no prior ground or flight training in this particular make or model. Toxicology results for the pilot were negative for all tested substances, and the autopsy yielded no significant findings.