Accident Overview
The flight crew reported to the tower controller that they were over the airport and requested a right downwind circling approach to runway 15. The tower controller and other witnesses observed the airplane in a steep right bank while on the base leg. The airplane overshot the extended runway centerline, and the controller noted the airplane entering a steeper right bank to correct back toward the centerline. The controller stated that he observed the airplane "flutter" and then crash right-wing first, about one mile north of the runway threshold.
Witness and Communication Details
Other witnesses reported a variety of indications consistent with a loss of control. The last recorded transmission from the flight crew was "Oh no you're (stall…)" (the parentheses indicate questionable word). It could not be determined which pilot was at the controls at the time of the accident. Both pilots were rated in the airplane.
Engine and Environmental Conditions
Both engines were producing about 1,700 pounds of thrust, while 2,561 pounds of thrust were available. A snow squall had just passed over the airport and was obscuring mountains to the east. The terrain was snow covered. The accident occurred about eight minutes before official sunset.
Approach Information
The approach procedure is not authorized at night or for Category D airplanes. Minimums for the approach were three miles visibility with a minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 10,840 feet. The airport elevation is 7,815 feet.