Incident Overview
On the night of the accident, at 2232 EDT, the aircraft was climbing to 15,000 feet when the pilot reported a low oil pressure light. Air Traffic Control (ATC) advised the pilot of nearby airports: Jimmy Stewart Field at about eleven thirty and 15 miles, and Westmoreland County at two o'clock and about 15 miles. The pilot asked if Jimmy Stewart Field was a tower field, and ATC responded that they did not know and that Westmoreland County Tower was believed to be closed.
Emergency Sequence
The pilot then considered his options, and ATC suggested Pittsburgh, 35 miles away. At 2234:35 EDT, the pilot reported zero oil pressure and an oil light while returning to Pittsburgh. At 2237:27 EDT, the pilot declared an emergency. The flight was cleared to Allegheny County Airport and advised of Monroeville Airport at a heading of 230 degrees and 5 miles. The aircraft crashed at 2247 EDT.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed a loose flange nut on the left turbocharger feed line that was finger tight. A test of the connection produced a steady leak. At the crash site, oil covered the bottom of the fuselage and empennage. The aircraft experienced a loss of engine power due to oil exhaustion from the loose connection. Two passengers were killed, and two other occupants were injured.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause includes: loss of engine power (partial) due to mechanical failure/malfunction, specifically a loose oil tubing in the lubricating system; inadequate maintenance by other maintenance personnel; oil exhaustion; partial engine assembly failure; and delayed emergency procedures by the pilot. Additionally, the forced landing and subsequent in-flight collision with terrain were attributed to poor in-flight planning/decision by the pilot in command.