Incident
Shortly after lifting off from the airport, the aircraft began its initial climb. When it reached an altitude of approximately 300 feet, the left engine lost power. The sudden loss of thrust caused the aircraft to stall. The captain, however, was able to regain control through appropriate control inputs.
Emergency Landing
With the aircraft under control once more, the captain decided to perform an emergency landing. The chosen landing site was a sports field located close to the airport. The landing was completed successfully under the circumstances.
Outcome
Both pilots who were on board the aircraft were not injured as a result of the incident. The aircraft itself, however, was damaged beyond the possibility of repair. The structural and mechanical damage from the emergency landing and the preceding events was extensive.
Probable Cause
Investigators identified the cause of the left engine failure as a crew error. Specifically, the fuel selector had been set to a position corresponding to an empty fuel tank, depriving the engine of fuel. This resulted in the engine stoppage and subsequent events.