What happened
Following a landing, the crew ordered the main tanks of the aircraft to be replenished for a subsequent flight to Toronto, Ontario. Once cargo was removed and refueling was complete, the crew attempted to depart. The first two takeoff attempts were aborted because the aircraft exhibited sluggish performance. Although engine run-ups following these aborts indicated normal operation, the crew contacted the fixed-base operator (FBO) to verify the fuel type used, receiving confirmation that 100LL Avgas had been loaded.
During the third takeoff attempt, both engines lost power immediately after the landing gear was retracted. The crew attempted an emergency landing on a nearby highway. During the descent, the left wing struck a utility pole, and the aircraft subsequently breached a fence before impacting a dirt embankment. The accident resulted in one fatality and one serious injury.
Findings
Investigations determined that the engines failed because the aircraft had been loaded with Jet-A fuel instead of the required 100LL Avgas. While the refueling truck was correctly marked with the proper fuel grade, its appearance was similar to the truck used for Avgas. The investigation identified improper fueling by FBO personnel as a primary factor in the engine power loss.