What happened
During the initial climb phase, at an altitude of approximately 400 feet above ground level, the crew detected a burning odor accompanied by light smoke inside the cabin. While the engines appeared to be functioning normally upon visual inspection, the intensity of the smoke and odor increased, leading to the activation of the left engine fire warning light.
In response to the warning, the pilot shut down the left engine and feathered the propeller. Although the pilot attempted to compensate by increasing power on the right engine, the aircraft type could not maintain its airspeed or continue its ascent. Consequently, the pilot executed a forced landing into a field with the landing gear and flaps in the up position.
Findings
Post-accident examination of the left engine identified that the lower elements of the fire detection system had become fused and broken free. Additionally, the inspection revealed that the hydraulic lines had been burned through. The pilot suggested that the incident may have been caused by a broken exhaust clamp, which allowed exhaust gases to scorch the cowling and trigger the fire warning system.