What happened
During a climb to cruise altitude, the pilot of a multi-engine aircraft identified an oil leak in the right engine. In response to the failure, the pilot shut down the engine, feathered the propeller, and initiated a return to the departure airport. While attempting to manage the aircraft in a single-engine configuration, the pilot extended the main landing gear and adjusted the trim.
During the approach phase, the remaining left engine failed to produce sufficient power. The pilot notified air traffic control that the airport was no longer reachable. The aircraft entered an emergency descent, striking trees while passing through a dense forest. During this uncontrolled descent, a fuel tank ruptured, leading to an explosion and fire. The aircraft remained on fire following the impact with the ground. There was one fatality involving the pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations into the wreckage revealed that both engines contained various mechanical anomalies. Notably, both engines had undergone recent overhauls and the accident occurred during the aircraft's first flight following those maintenance procedures. The inability of the remaining engine to maintain power was a critical factor in the loss of control.