Fatal IFR Missed Approach Crash Near Charleston (N8001Q)

Incident Overview and Pilot Report During an instrument flight rules (IFR) operation, the pilot reported that the aircraft was on a missed approach and returning to Charleston on a heading of 360°. The aircraft subsequently crashed approximately 1/4 mile south and 100 feet short of the departure end of runway 27. The wreckage scatter pattern was oriented on a heading of 155°. Missed approach procedures for the approach specified a climbing right turn via a 325° heading. All four occupants were killed in the accident. ## Engine and Propeller Findings Examination of the left engine revealed that the prop drive gear shaft had evidence of both bending and torsional failure loads. There was no evidence of machining or rotational smearing. Two of the three propeller blade tips were bent aft about the blade face. The left turbocharger exhibited a tension failure of the turbine wheel shaft, with no smear marks noted on the fracture face. Single turbine blade impact marks were noted on the housing. The n°1 tach needle indicated 900 rpm, and the n°2 tach needle indicated 1,900 rpm. ## Official Probable Cause Findings The official investigation identified three occurrences. Occurrence #1 was a loss of engine power during the missed approach phase, with the reason for the occurrence undetermined. Occurrence #2 was a loss of control in flight during the missed approach phase, with contributing factors including light condition (dark night), weather conditions (low ceiling, fog, below approach/landing minimums), a missed approach performed by the pilot in command, and aircraft handling not possible by the pilot in command. Occurrence #3 was an in-flight collision with terrain/water during the missed approach phase.