What happened
During the final approach phase into Jefferson City-Moore-Murrell Airport, the aircraft experienced a failure of its left engine. This mechanical issue caused the plane to bank toward the left side. As the flight progressed, the aircraft entered a stall and subsequently crashed into the ground, resulting in a post-impact fire. The accident occurred only a few miles from the destination airfield. There were five fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations into the crash identified a powerplant failure for reasons that remain undetermined. Several contributing factors were noted during the analysis of the wreckage and flight path. The investigation revealed that the crew's attention was diverted from the primary operation of the aircraft following the engine issue. Additionally, the aircraft failed to maintain an adequate flying speed throughout the emergency sequence.
Analysis of the propeller positions showed the left propeller at an angle of 11-15 degrees, while the right propeller was at 30 degrees. The distribution of the wreckage suggested that the aircraft was in a left rotation at the moment of impact. Furthermore, improper management of the powerplant controls was cited as a factor in the sequence of events.