What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from West Deering-Hawthorne-Feather Airpark, a twin engine airplane experienced significant difficulties maintaining altitude. The aircraft began oscillating with left and right rolls before making contact with trees in a nearby forested region. The impact caused the plane to stall and subsequently ignited a fire upon crashing. Both members of the flight crew sustained serious injuries during the accident.
Findings
Official investigations determined that the accident was the result of an aerodynamic stall occurring during the early stages of the climb. This condition was triggered because the crew did not achieve the necessary flying speed for safe operation. Eyewitness accounts noted that the aircraft departed the runway approximately 1,700 feet from the start of the field while maintaining a three-point attitude.