Incident
After takeoff from runway 29 at Campbell River Airport, the twin-engine aircraft climbed to approximately 200 feet, then initiated a right turn and lost altitude. The right wing struck trees, and the aircraft crashed 100 meters further, approximately 1,350 meters past the runway end. The aircraft was destroyed and all three occupants were killed.
Pre-Departure Events
Before departure, the pilot encountered engine problems. When the right engine was started, witnesses heard a rumbling sound and the pilot shut it down. Shortly thereafter, both engines were started again, and the pilot taxied for departure. The first takeoff procedure was rejected, and the pilot returned to the ramp to perform tests on the engine and propeller governors for about 18 minutes. During this time, it was observed that the right propeller stopped at least once while the left engine ran normally.