What happened
During the initial climb phase following takeoff, the pilot notified air traffic control of an unspecified mechanical issue and requested an immediate return to the airport. During this period, observers noted thick black smoke emitting from both engines of the aircraft. The flight ended when the plane struck a tree located roughly 0.5 miles northeast of the runway threshold.
Findings
Post-accident investigations into the engines revealed significant internal damage. An inspection of the right engine's number 5 piston uncovered a burn hole, and the right propeller was found in a feathered position. In the left engine, the edges of the pistons were found to be eroded down to the level of the first compression ring.
Analysis of the fuel samples indicated a concentration of roughly 50% jet fuel. Investigators identified a discrepancy regarding refueling equipment: while fuel filler restrictors had been placed in the aircraft's tanks, the fuel truck used by the vendor—which was leased to the FBO—was not equipped with the matching restrictive nozzle. This mismatch in refueling hardware contributed to the fuel contamination found in the engines.