What happened
During the climb-out phase from runway 09, at an altitude of roughly 500 feet, the crew observed the illumination of the red magnetic chip detector light for the right engine. In response to this warning, the pilot initiated procedures to shut down the right engine and intended to return to the departure airport. However, following the decision to shut down the right engine, the left engine also experienced a loss of power.
As the aircraft was unable to sustain its altitude, the pilot prepared for an emergency landing in a nearby field. During the maneuvers required for this off-airport landing, the aircraft struck trees. There were no reported fatalities or injuries during the event.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the airframe and flight control systems showed no signs of mechanical failure or anomalies. Similarly, a detailed examination of both the left and right engines revealed no mechanical defects.
Investigations into the cockpit fuel selector controls determined that the left engine fuel selector handle had been left in the off position. The right engine fuel selector was positioned to the left tank. According to standard in-flight engine secure procedures, the pilot is required to move the fuel selector of an inoperative engine to the off position, but the investigation found that the left engine fuel selector was incorrectly positioned, contributing to the loss of power.