Incident Details
During an ILS approach, the pilot observed an over torque condition in the left engine. He executed a go-around and commenced a second approach with the left engine shut down. On the second approach, the aircraft was unable to maintain altitude and entered an unarrested descent, subsequently crashing into two houses approximately six miles from the airport. All three occupants were killed.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the left engine revealed that the drive shaft connecting the fuel pump to the fuel control unit had sheared at the plastic coupling. Further inspection showed that the twin bearings supporting the driveshaft had failed. Evidence indicated that the shaft had shifted, resulting in an over torque condition.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be the pilot's improper in-flight planning/decision, which resulted in his failure to maintain control of the aircraft. Factors related to the accident were: failure of the left fuel control unit, and the adverse weather conditions.