What happened
During the early climb phase of a cross-country flight, the pilot experienced a loss of power in the left engine. As the aircraft transitioned onto the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, observers noted that the landing gear remained extended and the left propeller had been feathered.
As the aircraft turned toward the final approach course, witnesses saw the wings dip, followed by the plane nosed over into the ground. The impact occurred after the aircraft struck a fence located between two residential properties. The accident resulted in two fatalities.
Findings
An investigation of the wreckage revealed that the scavenge pump in the left engine had failed. This mechanical issue created the appearance of a total engine failure to the pilot. The crash was primarily driven by improper emergency procedures, specifically the pilot's failure to retract the landing gear and maintain sufficient airspeed, which led to a stall and an uncontrolled descent.