At about 1227 Eastern time, the airplane was substantially damaged following a collision with terrain. The private pilot was fatally injured and one passenger received serious injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.
The main wreckage was located about 0.65 nm from the runway. The cockpit and cabin were extensively burned from a post-impact fire. The landing gear handle was found in the retracted position. The position of the landing gear actuator linkage indicated an “in transit” position and was in close proximity to the up/retracted position. The wing flaps were found about 15 degrees extended. All engine controls were found near the full-forward positions.
