Accident Sequence
The pilot of a multi-engine airplane reported shutting down the left engine due to a loss of oil pressure. An emergency was declared, and the pilot began diverting toward an alternate airport. During the diversion, radar and radio contact were lost, and the aircraft subsequently crashed.
Wreckage Examination
The wreckage path spanned approximately 60 feet, with an estimated impact descent angle of about 45 degrees. Oil was observed behind the left engine, on the left flap, on the bottom of the left horizontal stabilizer, and on the bottom of the fuselage. Fuel stains were noted in the grass surrounding the wreckage. No evidence of preimpact fire was found.
Engine and Systems
The pilot had reported low oil pressure in the left engine before the accident flight and purchased seven quarts of oil prior to departure. Examination of the engines and propellers found no indications of power at impact. The left engine exhibited numerous abnormalities, while the right engine showed no discrepancies.
Weather Conditions
The farmer who discovered the wreckage reported sleet falling at the time of the accident. Another pilot in the area reported structural icing conditions.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be the pilot's operation of the airplane with known deficiencies, subsequent loss of oil from the left engine, and the pilot's failure to maintain minimum controllable airspeed (VMC) while diverting to an alternate airport. Factors relating to the accident were a leak from an unknown component in the left engine oil system and the local weather condition.