What happened
Shortly after departing the runway, air traffic controllers observed dark gray smoke emanating from the right engine of the aircraft. Upon being notified of the smoke, the pilot informed the tower that the flight would attempt an immediate return to the airport. During the climb, witnesses observed the aircraft roll to the left and pitch downward. The plane subsequently struck a line of trees before impacting the ground.
Findings
Investigations into the mechanical state of the aircraft revealed a fatigue crack located in the exhaust area behind the number 6 cylinder of the right engine. Additionally, investigators identified an incomplete weld repair in the same area. While the right engine's components had sustained heat damage, subsequent testing showed the engine could operate normally after repairs. A foreign object of unknown origin was also discovered within the intake area of the number 3 cylinder.
Data from the voice recorder indicated that both engines and propellers were running at nearly full rated RPM when the pilot first acknowledged the smoke. Shortly thereafter, the RPM of one engine/propeller assembly dropped to approximately 2,160 RPM. While the flight controls showed no signs of malfunction or failure prior to the impact, calculations determined that the aircraft was 55 pounds over its maximum certified takeoff weight.