Accident Overview
An accident occurred during a local flight to test newly installed avionics. The airplane departed with the pilot and multiple occupants. During takeoff, the airplane lifted off within performance specifications. Shortly after, the pilot reported to air traffic control (ATC) that the left engine had lost power. The landing gear remained extended as the pilot continued the takeoff.
Sequence of Events
A witness observed the airplane losing left engine power before reaching taxiway B4, noting a significant left yaw. The remaining runway distance from taxiway B4 to the departure end was approximately 2,600 to 2,700 feet. The same witness reported that the airplane began turning left shortly after passing the departure end of the runway.
As the pilot attempted to climb out, ATC instructed a right turn. The pilot responded that he would turn left, which directed the airplane toward the inoperative engine. This turn was considered improper due to the increased left rolling tendency and higher risk of loss of control. The airplane's ground speed subsequently slowed to the air minimum control speed (Vmc), at which point it rolled left and impacted terrain in an inverted attitude.
Aftermath
The airplane was destroyed in the impact. According to the investigation, a passenger sustained injuries, and two other occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined as the pilot's improper decision to attempt continued flight after a loss of left engine power with usable runway remaining and his subsequent failure to follow emergency procedures and maintain air minimum control speed, resulting in a loss of control. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's improper fuel tank selection, which led to a loss of left engine power due to fuel starvation.