What happened
During the takeoff phase, the aircraft experienced an unusually long ground roll and a sluggish climb. Observers noted that the engines were producing abnormal sounds during the maneuver. Shortly after departing the runway, the aircraft lost altitude and impacted a group of trees.
There were two fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.
Findings
Post-accident inspections of the engines revealed significant internal issues. An examination of the left engine showed that water had entered the fuel injector lines for cylinders 1, 3, and 5. Additionally, the nozzle for cylinder 3 was found to be plugged, and the intake valves exhibited dark, sooty deposits. The pistons in cylinders 1, 3, and 5 also contained substantial amounts of dark carbon buildup.
An inspection of the right engine identified extensive carbon accumulation throughout the unit. While an engine test run had been conducted by the director of maintenance the day prior to the accident, investigations into the operator's practices surfaced serious concerns. Former employees of the operator provided written statements alleging improper maintenance procedures, the falsification of maintenance logs, and general concerns regarding the airworthiness of the company's fleet.