Incident Description
During the landing gear retraction sequence, the pilot reported hearing a loud bang, followed by three to four smaller bangs. The first officer identified the left engine as the affected engine and immediately began feathering the propeller. After the propeller was feathered, the captain confirmed the action visually, noting the propeller in the feathered position.
Pilot Actions and Emergency Landing
The captain reported that the right engine was producing maximum available power, indicated by 55 inches of manifold pressure. However, the aircraft was unable to achieve an airspeed greater than 95 to 96 knots indicated. The captain attempted to return to the airport for an emergency landing but could not maintain altitude. He subsequently attempted to land on an airport perimeter road, during which the aircraft impacted the airport fence and a sand berm.
Examination Findings
A cursory examination of the engine and system components revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction.
Probable Cause
A total loss of left engine power and subsequent failure of the airplane to maintain airspeed and altitude on the remaining engine for undetermined reasons.