Accident Overview
While en route, the pilot notified approach control that the right engine was emitting smoke and losing oil pressure. Vectors were provided for a visual approach, but low clouds and haze reduced visibility. Upon reaching the airport area, the pilot reported the runway in sight and entered a left downwind for runway 30.
Timeline of Events
Witnesses observed the aircraft on a left downwind but noted it overshot the first turn toward final approach. As the pilot maneuvered to land, the aircraft crashed approximately 2,500 feet northeast of the runway in a wooded area. Witnesses reported the aircraft was flying slowly in a steep right turn with the landing gear extended before it descended steeply and caught fire.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed that the starter on the right engine had loosened. Three starter bolts had fractured through the threaded area, exhibiting signs of fatigue cracking. Wear marks on the starter gear and engine gear ring indicated the starter motor had shifted approximately three-quarters of an inch rearward. Additionally, the torsional damper was found to have been loose on its shaft before the accident, and both propellers were operating at low pitch during initial impact.
Probable Cause
The official findings identified three occurrences. The first was a partial loss of engine power due to mechanical failure, specifically fatigue of engine accessories, a loose starter, partial loss of the oil seal, and an oil leak. The second occurrence was a loss of in-flight control attributed to the pilot's failure to feather the propeller, an improper planned approach, failure to maintain minimum control airspeed (Vmc), and failure to maintain aircraft control. The third occurrence was an in-flight collision with terrain during an uncontrolled descent.