What happened
Following a departure from runway 08, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level when the left engine experienced a loss of power. Upon identifying the failure, the pilot performed the procedure to feather the left propeller and requested maximum dry thrust from the right engine.
Despite the availability of wet power, which could have added 450 horsepower to the remaining engine, the pilot chose not to utilize this additional power. Consequently, the aircraft was unable to sustain its flight altitude. During the descent, the plane struck a palm tree before eventually coming to a stop on the beach near the surf line.
Findings
Investigation into the specific cause of the left engine malfunction was prevented by damage caused by salt water. However, it was noted that the aircraft was operating at a weight that exceeded its maximum allowable limit by 600 pounds.